The Bath Business Improvement District (Bath BID) has launched a new campaign, ‘Bath After 5’, with the aim to support, promote and grow the early evening economy in the city.
The city centre is an area which local businesses identified as an opportunity for growth in a recent survey.
The campaign, which is being piloted throughout August and September and is supported by Bath Tourism Plus, aims to raise awareness of the cultural, shopping, dining and leisure activities on offer for locals and visitors to enjoy in Bath after 5pm, seven days a week.
On average, Bath attracts over five million visitors to the city each year, the majority of which visit during the summer months.
The ‘Bath After 5’ campaign will engage directly with the thousands of people coming to Bath, as well as local residents and workers, and ensure they know the Roman city is much more than just a daytime destination – 5pm onwards the city is very much alive and has something for everyone.
From ‘after hours’ events at the museums, to extended retail hours, evening spa packages and eating out deals, Bath has it all.
Speaking about the new initiative, Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive of Bath BID, said: “We aim to not only ensure visitors and residents make the most of all our great city has to offer, but we also aim to support all the local businesses.
“There is natural footfall in Bath during the daytime, particularly during the summer months, however there is no reason why this shouldn’t continue post 5pm.
“Boosting the early evening economy will help to keep this thriving city growing.
“Many of the Bath museums, retailers, restaurants and leisure destinations run special offers and packages from 5pm onwards; it’s during the twilight hours that Bath is arguably at its best.
“By launching the ‘Bath After 5’ campaign, we hope to spread this message and continue to strengthen the local economy.”
To support the campaign, the Bath BID team will provide participating businesses with promotional leaflets, posters, window decals and a tool-kit with advice on how companies can get involved in the campaign.
A social media campaign, targeting the business Bath audience and consumers looking to stay in the city centre for longer, will also generate interest in the early evening economy and as ‘Bath After 5’ gains momentum and more businesses get involved, Bath BID will be launching additional marketing initiatives.
For more information on ‘Bath After 5’ and the activities taking place throughout August and September, visit www.visitbath.co.uk/bathafter5 or follow @BathBID and use #BathAfter5.
