Facing COVID-19: The small businesses working together to keep Malton going

A group of Yorkshire businesses have come together to launch a new service to help companies and residents through the coronavirus outbreak.

Malton Delivers is a partnership of Malton businesses that have joined forces to launch delivery services so that the town can continue to support independent producers.

The service follows the closure of small businesses, bars and restaurants across the country, and aims to keep those businesses going - as well as providing a service for local residents.

To launch the service, local design agency Ten Fathoms has created an online directory for Malton Delivers, which includes providers of meat and fish, baked goods, fruit and vegetables and beer.

Donna Middleditch of Ten Fathoms commented: “We saw first-hand that there has been a disconnect between the larger supermarkets – which have fast been running out of stock – and the smaller local businesses, who have plenty of stock but have perhaps seen less footfall in recent weeks.

“We wanted to help the local community by setting up a hub for them to use as a directory when ordering food. We hope that by using our skills in design we can do our bit to help!”

Tom Naylor-Leyland, director of Visit Malton, commented: “The quick thinking of small businesses in the area and commitment to delivering to local residents who are unable to leave their homes is incredibly heartening at a time when community spirit is so important.

“Malton champions independent businesses and artisan food producers whose livelihood depends on the support of residents in shopping locally.

“The launch of delivery services across Ryedale will ensure the continued operation of these fantastic businesses during challenging trading conditions and will help safeguard the future of our high street.”

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