With Christmas creeping up on us and Santa and the gang gearing up for the big day, it’s time to think about Christmas shopping in Inverness. In the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s easy to get caught up in the convenience of ordering from online giants, but the charm and warmth of local businesses offer a unique experience that’s alien to the big boys like Amazon. Let’s unwrap the myriad reasons why you should make the choice to #shoplocal this Christmas and we’ll give you some top tips of where to shop this Christmas in Inverness.
The Impact of Local Shopping on Communities
Supporting local businesses isn’t just about making a purchase; it’s an investment in your community. The money spent at local shops circulates within the neighbourhood, contributing to local economies and creating job opportunities. It’s a small act that collectively builds a robust foundation for communities and cities like Inverness to thrive.
Beyond the economic impact, shopping locally fosters a sense of community. It’s a chance to interact with neighbours, share stories, and create connections that go beyond the transaction. In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, local shopping brings people together in a tangible way.
Unique Finds in Local Shops
Tired of the same old mass-produced gifts? Local shops are treasure troves of unique finds. Whether it’s handcrafted jewellery, bespoke clothing, artisanal home décor, or sweet treats and local culinary delights, local businesses offer a refreshing departure from the ordinary. The joy of giving something one-of-a-kind is a gift in itself.
Local shops cater to diverse tastes and preferences, reflecting its community. From international flavours in a local bakery to culturally inspired art in a local gallery or shop, the variety of products available adds a vibrant touch to your Christmas shopping.
But where’s good to shop local in Inverness? Who’s got the gifts that will make you King or queen of Crimbo? This is by not an exhaustive list, but here’s a small selection of places to consider when looking for gift ideas when Christmas shopping in Inverness.
Handmade and Unique Gifts in Inverness
First stop should be the Eastgate Centre. Yeah, there are multinationals in there, but you’ll also find local sellers like One Of A Kind Gallery which sells local artisan gifts. Handmade jewellery, ornaments, paintings and photography from local craftspeople that’ll make fantastic unique gifts this Christmas.
Across the road from the shopping centre on Academy Street you’ll find the Victorian Market, a treasure trove of local shops, sellers and the perfect place to pick up a unique Christmas gift in Inverness. Gorgeous jewellery from Colin Campbell Jewellers or William Morrison Jeweller will delight your other half this Christmas. Or maybe you’d like a unique gift made by Scottish crafters? Visit Triquerta Crafts in the market which is run by a mother, daughter and their wee dog Charlie, who’ll help you find that perfect wee gift! There’s so many great local places in the Victorian Market to find that unique gift in Inverness, too many to list here, but you could spend all day skipping through those halls – not to mention stopping for some food and drink in the food hall!
Judith Glue is the perfect place to pick up beautiful knitwear and gifts this Christmas. Championing the best Scottish produce from Orkney and the Highlands and Islands, there’s lots of unique gifts from scarves to coasters and paintings, and everything in between! Walk a wee bit further up to the Crown area and you’ll find The Drawing Room. They stock a variety of gifts, jewellery and home furnishings that are unmatched in Inverness for their quality and style. As well as quality gifts, they can also personalise items, making your gift that more special.
Books, Sweets and Swally!
For the book lover in the house, Leakey’s is worth a visit. It is Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop and is set in a beautiful old church in the middle of the city centre. It’s a feast for the eyes that is famous the world over, but you’ll also be able to pick up a title or two and a good price from the over 100,000 volumes on their shelves!
Art lovers must visit the Castle Gallery, thriving in the shadow of Inverness Castle. There you’ll find a large selection of art by both Scottish and British artists with a range of beautiful paintings, prints, sculptures, jewellery, glass and ceramics. There’s lots to see and appreciate there, as well as knowledgeable, friendly staff that can lending a helping hand when finding the perfect gift this Christmas.
The sweet-toothed will appreciate Young’s Auld Sweetie Shop, an old-fashioned sweet shop, dedicated to all-things sweet – chocolate and candy both retro and modern. It’ll take people right back to their childhood!
If a wee dram is more your thing, the Highland Whisky Shop has a vast array of whiskies and gins from around Scotland. This independent, family-owned store also has a tasting bar, where you can sample a few nips so you can get the perfect gift (as well as put a spring in your step for the rest of the Christmas shopping in Inverness).
Breaks, Bikes and all the Rest!
Fancy giving a weekend break or a voucher towards a holiday for someone special? Murray Travel are the local travel specialists in Inverness. From weekend breaks in the Scottish countryside, trips to Silverstone for the petrol head. Or maybe a once in a lifetime holiday to the States? The guys at Murray Travel will pull out all the stops to make your holiday gift personal and perfect!
If you’re looking for a gift for the motorcycle enthusiast in your life, you won’t go wrong visiting Mitchell Motorcycles. They’ve got all the kit so you’ll be able to find a gift for the seasoned rider or someone new to the road. If you don’t know your stuff, the staff at Mitchell’s will be more than happy to suggest great gifts!
If pedal power is more what you’re after, Bikes of Inverness on Grant Street have lots of great ideas for cyclists. From lights, gloves and clothing, to extra parts and bikes themselves – they’ll kit out any cyclist! There’s a reason they are the oldest bike shop in town – great service and fantastic knowledge.
If you’re not quite sure what to buy someone, you can’t go wrong with an Inverness City Centre Gift Card. With over 160 businesses ranging from national chains to local independents it’s sure to please the hardest of people for buy for this Christmas. It doesn’t need to be spent just in shops either. They can spend their Gift Card on a pamper session, drinks or a even a meal out and more
For a full list of businesses and more details click HERE.
Personalised Service and Attention
Ever felt like just another number in the online shopping maze? Local businesses pride themselves on providing personalised service. The friendly faces behind the counter will not only help you find the perfect gift. But also create an experience that goes beyond the transactional nature of modern retail.
Shopping locally often involves memorable interactions. From store owners remembering your name to personalised recommendations based on your preferences. These small but impactful moments create lasting memories, turning the act of shopping into an enjoyable tradition.
Fostering a Sustainable Environment
In an era of heightened environmental consciousness, local shopping aligns with sustainable practices. By reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping and packaging, buying locally minimises the environmental impact of your Christmas purchases.
Many local businesses prioritise sustainable sourcing and production methods. From eco-friendly packaging to ethical production processes, choosing local ensures that your gifts come with a side of environmental responsibility.
Celebrating the Artisans and Craftspeople
Behind every locally made product is a skilled artisan or craftsperson pouring their creativity and expertise into their work. Shopping locally is a celebration of these talents. Providing a platform for artists and craftsmen to showcase their unique creations and grow their talent.
Handmade gifts carry a special authenticity. They tell a story of dedication and passion, and each item becomes a piece of art with its own narrative. When you choose locally crafted products, you bring home more than just a gift; you bring home a piece of someone’s creative soul.
Keeping Money in Your Community
When you shop locally, your money stays within the community. Unlike big corporations that funnel profits to distant headquarters, local businesses contribute to local taxes and services, ensuring that your financial support directly benefits the place you call home.
The economic benefits of money circulating within the local community are far-reaching. It supports infrastructure development, local schools, and essential services, creating a positive cycle that enhances the overall quality of life for residents.
The Convenience Factor
The common misconception that online shopping is always more convenient deserves a second look. Local businesses offer a hassle-free shopping experience with the added bonus of immediate access to your purchases.
Forget about waiting for deliveries or dealing with return labels. Local shops provide a straightforward and convenient shopping experience. Plus, you get to enjoy the tactile pleasure of browsing and selecting items in person.
The Domino Effect of Supporting Local
The impact of supporting local businesses extends far beyond the immediate transaction. It sets off a positive chain reaction, influencing the community in ways both seen and unseen.
Choosing local is not just a personal decision; it’s a collective effort to create a thriving community. When you support local businesses, you become part of something bigger—something that transcends individual transactions and shapes the identity of your community.
Make Christmas Easy With Inverness Taxis
This Christmas you don’t have to trudge home with all your gifts on the bus or park 1000 miles away from the shops because there’s no parking, prebook your Inverness Taxi and we’ll glide you into Inverness and back making Christmas shopping the joy it should be! You can book your local taxi through our convenient platforms:
Call Inverness Taxis on 01463222222
Or, for an immediate taxi, download our partner app SafeKab to book your Inverness taxi at the touch of a button!
You can also get a brilliant 10% off your taxi journey this November if get your taxi from our city centre Inverness Taxi office on Church Street. How many more reasons do you need to make Inverness Taxis your ‘partner in Christmas’ this December?!
