A consumer loyalty scheme launch in Ilkley last week attracted interest from a variety of businesses based in the town.

More than 20 small independent retailers and representatives of other local businesses attended a meeting held in Ilkley last Wednesday, September 18, to launch the Phlok scheme in Yorkshire.

The commercial venture, which has already seen success in some towns in Ireland, aims to promote independent local business using a social digital media network and awarding a virtual currency to consumers to buy from participating businesses.

Owner of Ilkley business Attic Womenswear, Sarah Lyles, has been working with organisers to bring the scheme to the region, beginning with Ilkley.

She said: “We had at least 20-plus people come to the meeting. We’ve got at least ten come on board so far, and we’re still communicating with businesses that couldn’t attend. There’s a lot of interest in coming on board.”