Oban Named ‘Town of the Year’ in 2024 Scotland Loves Local Awards:

This year’s Scotland Loves Local Awards highlighted the impact of communities like Oban that are revitalising their town centres through initiatives that benefit all. Supporting local businesses, services, and events helps protect Oban’s unique character while contributing to environmental sustainability by reducing the need for travel and large-scale shipping. Every visit to a local shop, café, or business is an investment in Oban’s future. Oban Business Improvement District, BID4Oban is passionate about promoting the message ‘Shop local, Support local and Use local’ and now, in the run-up to Christmas, shop local is as important as ever. Chief executive Andrew Spence said: ‘It goes without saying that supporting local businesses, restaurants, pubs, shops and services is key to the prosperity of our town.’

If you’re still having doubts about buying from smaller shops, using your local hair salons or making the trip to any local shops, here are five ways that shopping locally can help you, your neighbours and your surrounding community.

5 Ways to Support Local in Oban

1. Shop Local First

2. Dine and Drink in Oban’s Restaurants and Cafés

3. Stay in Local Accommodation

4. Attend Local Events and Festivals

5. Use Local Services and Suppliers

A Bright Future for Oban

As the new “Town of the Year,” Oban’s win at the Scotland Loves Local Awards is more than just a title; it’s a call to action. By shopping, staying, and investing locally, we are ensuring that Oban remains a vibrant, thriving town for generations to come. With initiatives focused on supporting local businesses, fostering economic resilience, and celebrating the unique charm of Oban, the community is well-positioned to continue on this path of success and growth.

Oban Gift Vouchers

Love Oban vouchers, the Oban Pound, were set up by BID4Oban to encourage spending in local shops, restaurants and businesses and have proved extremely popular. Over the last year, sales of these vouchers have increased by more than 40 per cent compared to the previous year. By buying and using the vouchers, you can ensure your money stays within the Oban business community. The vouchers can be used in more than 80 businesses and Mr Spence is asking businesses not listed on the database to contact his office to find out how they can participate.

Festive Favourites

This year will see the return of many favourite events including the Oban Reindeer Parade and Festive Lights Switch on Saturday November 23. The parade, led by Oban Pipe Band, will leave the Corran Halls at 5pm and head to Station Square. Santa will turn on

the lights at 5.30pm.