Newspaper publisher backs National Federation of Independent Retailers

Yet more suppliers have been pledging support for independent retailers who are facing severe hardship as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

JPI Media, owners of this newspaper, Just Employment Law and Warburton’s are the latest companies to back the NFRN’s Covid-19 Hardship Fund.

They join Booker, Camelot, Coca Cola European Partners GB, dmg media, Japan Tobacco International, Newtrade Media and Reposs who have all previously donated to the Fund.

Since its launch last month, nearly £32,000 has been paid out to cash-strapped members.

Commenting on the latest donations, NFRN National President Stuart Reddish said: “We are so grateful to JPI Media, Just Employment Law and Warburtons for supporting NFRN members in this time of crisis.

“Our Hardship Fund was set up at the beginning of April to provide immediate aid to independent retailers whose businesses have been severely affected by the impact of Covid-19 and it is heartening that so many of our business partners recognise the financial distress that this is causing many of our members and that even though they are facing their own challenges, they are prepared to lend support.”

JPI Media Head of Content Tina Evans said: “The coronavirus outbreak has put our retail partners under immense pressure at a crucial moment when our readers rely on quality news. JPI Media recognises the importance of the local newsagents and thanks members for their ongoing support of our titles and their role in serving our local communities.”

Just Employment Law Managing Director David McRae: “As a long standing business partner of the NFRN, Just Employment Law has first-hand knowledge of the support the Federation extends to its members and that will be no more apparent than during these troubled times.

“When we learned of the Covid-19 Hardship Fund being established we had little hesitation in pledging our support for such a worthy cause aimed at helping member retailers in their time of need. It’s the least we could do. We value our relationship with the NFRN and admire its efforts on behalf of its members at this time.”

Warburtons Sales director Colin Bebbington: “In these challenging times it’s important that we pull together and support each other as an industry. The Hardship Fund that the NFRN has set up for independent retailers is a great example of what we should be doing, and Warburtons is pleased that we can play our part by supporting it.”

NFRN districts and branches have also contributed generously to the Fund.

Members suffering severe financial hardship can apply for a grant via the NFRN website, www.nfrnonline.com.