Newmarket Town Council, the Guineas Shopping Centre and Love Newmarket BID are working together to promote Purple Tuesday in Newmarket. Purple Tuesday is the UK’s accessible shopping day, established to recognise the importance and needs of disabled consumers and promote inclusive shopping. Participating retailers will be promoting their involvement on the day, with events taking place on high streets and in shopping centres.

Purple Tuesday is being co-ordinated by disability organisation Purple, with the endorsement of the Department for Work and Pensions and support from a steering group of Purple Tuesday launch partners. Launch partners include Argos, Barclays, British Retail Consortium, Contacta, Landsec, Marks & Spencer, Revo, Sainsbury’s, and The Crown Estate.

Resident Peter Neville explained ‘’The importance of inclusive shopping is the reason for the £249bn loss in potential sales. With more retailers and organisations on board this year and the move to the Guineas shopping centre it will be in the heart of Newmarket’s retail centre. Small adjustments such as quiet time shopping, they can make a huge difference to someone with autism coming into their shop. Just a few lights off or music volume lowered might not sound much but really works. The response from the Town’s Mayor Cllr Rachel Hood and Council members supporting for a second year is fantastic and proves that Newmarket is listening and acting towards the needs of the community’’.

Many retailers will be looking how to make their stores more accessible, to help those with disabilities to have a stress-free day of shopping.

Town Council Manager, Roberta Bennett commented “We are delighted that the community asked Newmarket Town Council to again support this town wide event and we are lucky to have several volunteers who have been working hard behind the scenes to promote Purple Tuesday in Newmarket. This year, we are moving the focus of the event to the Guineas Shopping Centre and look forward to seeing you there as we turn the town purple”.

Charities and community groups will be taking part at our free event at the Guineas Shopping Centre between 10am and 3 pm on Tuesday 12th November. This is an opportunity for local groups to promote the work they are carrying out in Newmarket. Guineas Shopping Centre has organised a trail for children which will start on the 9th November and the winner will receive a Purple Tuesday goody bag. Entry forms are available from The Guineas Shopping Centre Management office, Newmarket Town Council office, and The Library.