Andi Oliver gives thumbs up to shop local discount club

Great British Menu judge Andi Oliver has voiced her support for a new discount club which encourages people to shop and eat locally.

The broadcaster and restaurateur, who recently launched Andi’s restaurant on Stoke Newington Church Street with her business partner Kelly Miles, offers 10% off the bill to members of the Local Buyers Club. She spoke of the value club would bring to community life.

“Neighbourhood is hugely important to us”, she said. "One of the reasons we came to Stoke Newington and chose this site is because it felt like a place we could make into a real neighbourhood spot. Joining something like the Local Buyers Club that links up local businesses so we all support each other and so customers support our businesses goes to the heart of our ethics: beautiful things for beautiful people.”

The Local Buyers Club is currently expanding throughout North London, with discounts in Islington, Stoke Newington, Dalston, Clapton, Broadway Market and Victoria Park. Membership costs £12 per year and cardholders get discounts at dozens of local shops and restaurants.

It has been launched by husband and wife team Basil and Jenna Fansa, who previously co-founded the FamilyCard, a discount card in Stoke Newington.

Jenna said: “The Family Card was hugely popular with businesses and local parents, but we wanted a card for everyone to use – regardless of whether they have children. By expanding area by area, we’re creating a club through which members can access discounts at small and independent businesses in many areas.

“We believe shopping and eating locally helps preserve the individuality and character of our high streets and is vital in creating a sense of community.

“Andi’s is one of our favourite local restaurants so we’re delighted to have their support.”

Among the businesses offering discounts of 10% or more to members of the Local Buyers Club are Andi’s, The Prince pub, The Red Lion, Stoke Newington Tea House, Green Room Café, N16 Flowers, El Olivo, Il Bacio, Drive Now, Wolf, Rudie’s, Clapton Table, Earlybird Cards, Clapton Craft, Clissold House, Stokey Bears, Push Cycles, Lele's The Rio Cinema, L'Epicerie@56, Bournes Fish, Off Broadway, Climpson and Son Café and many more.

Visit www.localbuyersclub.com