Businesswoman sets up 'community initiative' in Banbury to help restaurants, takeaways and cafés during this tough time

Forward-thinking Aimee Trivett has set up her own community business in Banbury a bid to help restaurants, takeaways and cafés during this tough time for them.

And she hopes that the business, called 'Virtually Open', will take on the likes of Just Eat, Uber Eats and Deliveroo.

The business is an online order service specifically for Banbury restaurants, takeaways, cafés, farm shops, bakeries, grocers and butchers to sell their goods online - with no commission.

Aimee said: ""Its aim is to help local businesses reach a wider audience during these challenging times we all find ourselves in, and make it as easy and safe as possible for customers by offering the ability to place orders from the comfort of your own home, or from right outside your favourite eateries and shops in Banbury.

"Offering easy online ordering (and pre-ordering!), contactless payment, and the option of socially-distanced collection and delivery, you can continue enjoying your favourite food and stay as safe as possible, at the same time as supporting local businesses."

Many companies have signed up and are already seeing success, such as Voujon, The Rustic Bakery, The Place for Food, Produce Warriors, Lock 29 street food vendors (Jammin Pizza, Mr Souvlaki and Foosian) and Tom’s Diner.

Lock 29 said: “Aimee helped get our takeaway online at a rapid pace. Within two days of contact, we had a functional website that allowed our regulars and new customers to order online for collection or delivery. A vital function for businesses in these tricky times. Well recommended.”

In the spirit of community, Virtually Open is encouraging everyone in Banbury to order directly with their favourite local businesses, as the platform is commission-free, meaning every penny of profit goes back to Banbury businesses.

To find out more - or if you are a Banbury business that wants to get involved - visit virtuallyopen.co.uk