Watford High Street has teamed up with WhatsApp to help local businesses and has now become the first ever ‘WhatsApp High Street’ in the UK.
A brand new high street initiative to help small businesses hit by a catastrophic drop in profit caused by the impact of covid-19.
WhatsApp, the world’s largest and widely used private messaging service has created the UK’s first ‘WhatsApp High Street’ – allowing companies to connect easily with their customers.
Watford Mayor Peter Taylor said: “I’m delighted a global brand like WhatsApp has chosen to work with us on this initiative, which is the first of its kind in the UK.
“Local businesses are vital to our economy, bringing jobs and so much character to our town. We are committed to working with them to ensure Watford’s economy succeeds as we open up after a difficult period of lockdown.
“Digital skills and new technology are at the heart of our plans for the borough, which is why we are helping local businesses to adapt to the new circumstances we find ourselves in.”
Twelve businesses on Market Street, Watford, have signed up for the brand new programme, with experts from WhatsApp training them to use the app as a shopfront for their services and products.
All businesses that are involved can now communicate on issues like opening hours, social distancing, stock, menus and table bookings.
WhatsApp partnerships manager Dan Lenan said: “It is more important than ever for us all to support local businesses as high streets all over the country struggle with the economic downturn.
“With the huge challenges presented by Coronavirus, it is vital we keep our high streets alive and thriving.
“Whether it’s helping a retailer fulfil online orders, a restaurant to become a take away, or a beauty salon to communicate social distancing rules, the WhatsApp Business App can help people steer their business through these difficult times.
“We are very happy to partner with Watford to support their business community and to show that digital tools can support their recovery.”
