A NEW online showcase has been launched shining a spotlight on the best of Carmarthenshire’s local independent businesses.

100% Sir Gâr has been developed by Carmarthenshire County Council with support from town and community councils, business and retail groups, to give local retailers and producers a platform to highlight their products.

In the run-up to what it traditionally the biggest retail period of the year, it is hoped the online directory will become a vital resource for people shopping for loved ones as well as supporting local traders when they need it the most.

100% Sir Gâr is a virtual shop window, highlighting a wide range of wonderful home-grown and handmade products by talented local people.

It has been launched on www.discovercarmarthenshire.com and will be shared widely across local social media feeds over the coming weeks.

The council and it partners have been working with local businesses to develop 100% Sir Gâr - any local independent business or producer can sign up to be included and take advantage of the free marketing opportunity.

By signing up they will also be able to access support to grow and improve their business.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Emlyn Dole, said: “Our small independent businesses have never been through such a tough year, and at a time when we’re all starting to prepare for Christmas we’re asking people to shop 100% Sir Gâr. Please support your local businesses at a time when they need you the most.

“Here in Carmarthenshire we are lucky to have a vibrant and diverse range of small local businesses who are producing some wonderful arts and crafts, food and drink, fashion, homeware, wellbeing and cosmetics, gifts, toys and more.

“If you’re thinking of buying gifts for your family, or simply want to treat yourself, visit 100% Sir Gâr and buy something truly unique whilst helping local people and businesses and keeping the Carmarthenshire economy moving.

“Your support will be so greatly valued.”

Shelley Williams-Davies, who runs Attic Vintage Interiors, in King Street, Carmarthen, said: “100% Sir Gâr will give us an opportunity to attract new customers and showcase what our shop has to offer. We hope it will encourage people to support small local independent businesses too.”

Pethau Pert owner Catrin Gwyn, added: “As a new business that was born in the lockdown period, Pethau Pert is excited to be involved in 100% Sir Gâr. We see this as an opportunity to raise our profile and find new customers who are looking to support local businesses during these times.”