*Guest Blog Post – Devon in a Box
When a busy mum from Axminster came up with the idea of supporting local Devon businesses, the impact of the credit crunch was not on her mind. However, a lot has changed in the last six months and now founder of Devon in a Box, Amanda, is also on a mission to help local families save money this summer.
Devon in a Box works with businesses across Devon, from independent coffee shops to popular family owned tourist attractions. They have secured a range of fantastic discounts that will help everyone save on days out this summer and throughout the year.
“As a mum of 5 I have always needed to watch what I spend, and the summer holidays is often the worst time as there is so much pressure to keep the kids entertained” says Amanda.
The Devon Discount Card is adding new businesses to its list on a daily basis. It offers a huge range of savings, from money off entrance fees and experiences to free cake! Some of the well-known names who have got behind the scheme are Pennywell Farm, Powderham Castle, Canonteign Falls and World of Country Life. Saving money on meals and snacks is also important and there are numerous pubs and cafes offering great discounts. Even if you don’t have children, or are able to enjoy a couple of kid-free days out, there’s a chance to save money on wine tasting tours, gin tours, cookery courses and cocktails – yum!
“Working in the tourism industry, I first came up with the idea of the Devon Discount Card as a way to point holiday makers to less well known, independent businesses they might not otherwise find out about. I am always being asked about the hidden gems that visitors love to find. However, as the year has gone on a lot has changed and I realised that I could make my idea work for everyone including Devon locals and day trippers” Amanda explained.
There is a small charge for the Discount Card, but with the great discounts it offers, you can easily make your money back. Plus, as a special offer for August, cards bought will be valid for four weeks, giving families an extra week to make use of the discounts for the price of three. The access to the discounts is online through the Devon in a Box website.
The Devon Discount Card is always looking to promote more businesses who are happy to offer a special deal, so Devon in a Box would love to hear from anyone else wanting to get involved. As with any small business owner, hard work and a huge amount of passion goes on behind the scenes.
