01 June 2021
GO! Southampton is to launch an exciting new scheme to help local businesses and residents enjoy a summer of savings and encourage footfall back into Southampton’s businesses that have faced long closures in the wake of lockdowns.
The city’s Business Improvement District (BID), will be introducing a variety of offers and discounts through its eagerly anticipated SO card scheme hosted via the Visit Southampton website.
Supported by Southampton City Council, the physical card is expected to arrive at 100,000 Southampton households before the first week in June. Once received, residents will be able to show it to participating businesses when ordering, buying at the till, or when pre-booking packages and experiences.
Running for a trial period from 1 June to 31 August, the card is not only free for customers to use, but there are also no sign-up pages, fees, or app downloads.
Lauren Sutton, Hotel Manager at Mercure Southampton Centre Dolphin Hotel, who has an offer with the SO card, said: “As soon as we heard about the SO card we jumped at the chance to take part. After such a challenging time for everyone, we were excited to be a part of a scheme which will see residents and workers return to the city. It will be fantastic to see the city come to life once again, and for businesses to build confidence and loyalty with the locals.”
Giles Semper, Executive Director at GO! Southampton believes that the card will help to encourage local residents back into the city post-lockdown while giving businesses a quick and free way to engage with new and returning customers.
He said: “The SO card will play a vital part in getting Southampton back on its feet over the summer.
“There is something for everyone, from hospitality and retail to leisure and health – both in independent and high street names. All they need to do is head to the Visit Southampton website, browse the offers and redeem in store or online. There will also be a digital version online that customers can show on redemption or download and print if they wish.
“What’s more, businesses can create promotions during quieter times to help increase footfall which will be particularly useful in boosting mid-week sales.”
The SO card offers something for everyone, from hospitality and retail to leisure and health and beauty. There will be a range of offers, packages and experiences available to residents from some of Southampton’s much-loved businesses and attractions, as well as a few well-known national chains. A full list of participating businesses can be found on the Visit Southampton website from 1st June.
Giles added: “Once the trial period ends, we will work closely with our partners to evaluate and review. There is no reason why this could not turn into a long-term campaign, especially while the city works hard in its bid to become UK City of Culture 2025.”
Deputy Leader of Southampton City Council and Cabinet Member for Growth, Councillor Jeremy Moulton, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the SO Card which has been created to help Southampton businesses to recover post-lockdown. There is no doubt that the pandemic has resulted in many challenges for businesses, and we need to do all we can to support them in their recovery. This initiative, which is free for businesses and residents, is great for retailers and great for local residents who benefit not only from special offers but also from one off promotions of experiences that they may not normally consider.”
Find out how you can use the SO card at: www.visitsouthampton.co.uk/offers