A COMPANY support service has teamed up with Kent County Council (KCC) to secure the future of shops affected by the closure of Post Office branches across the region.

Business Link and KCC have put together a support programme for shops affected by the 56 Post Office branches that are closing in Kent.

It is feared the loss of revenue could put many shops out of business.

The action programme will include an experienced business adviser and a plan to implement changes needed for shops to continue as viable businesses.

Meetings will also be held with people where post office closures have a wider community impact, especially in rural areas.

Business Link’s head of marketing, Tony Buddin, said: “Many small shops, particularly in rural areas, are already in a precarious financial position. The loss of income and customers when people no longer visit them to use their post office services could put them out of business unless they take immediate action.

“However, there are thriving rural shops that have never needed the additional attraction of having a post office counter and we know from past experience that it is possible for threatened shops to turn their fortunes around and become vibrant community hubs simply by making use of specialist advice on issues such as merchandising, stock range, marketing and promotion.”

KCC’s cabinet member for regeneration and supporting independence, Roger Gough, said: “It’s crucial that we work with organisations like Business Link to minimise the impact of the Post Office closures. We can do that by providing real, practical solutions to help retailers move forward from here.”

For more information or to book meeting with a Business Link adviser call 0845 600 9 006.