Discount card to promote small businesses in Portsmouth

Mr Hooper, who also started and currently runs the Shop Portsmouth mobile app, has set up the Shop Portsmouth VIP Card, which for a yearly £12.99 subscription fee offers its members discounts at a wide range of independent businesses in Portsmouth.

Mr Hooper, from Portsmouth, said more than 200 people have already signed up to the scheme, which gives discounts in places such as Scoops Gelato, Goodwin’s Photos and Frames and Smarty Pants.

Mr Hooper said: ‘Not only is it promoting independent stores, it also helps the public save money and supports the community.’

Members receive a gold card similar to a credit card which they simply show to get offers and discounts.

Mr Hooper’s company Shop Portsmouth has been campaigning for people to support independent businesses for more than a year.

Mr Hooper said: ‘This time last year I didn’t even think we would make it this far, but there are nearly 250,000 people in Portsmouth so that’s my market.’

He added: ‘There are so many big companies out there promoting big businesses, it’s important to promote the smaller businesses too.

‘This is the first card of its type in Portsmouth and the response from the business world has been brilliant. The card is for all ages, and offers some great deals.’

For more, or to sign up, go to shopportsmouthvipcard.co.uk/