Small business payments technology company iZettle has opened a two-day rehab centre in London to help consumers with internet shopping addiction.

The Giant Corp Rehab Centre will be run by trained therapists and will offer a variety of interactive sessions – from group therapy and a digit distraction class to workshops with independent business owners- to make customers think twice about their shopping habits, realise the damage it’s having on the high street and urge them to swap their ‘one-click’ habits for a trip to a local shop.

Hackney-based florist Rebel Rebel co-founder Athena Duncan, who runs the workshop at the centre, said: “We need our high streets and shops so we can experience real things and touch them, taste them and feel them. In ten years’ time when we turn round and there are no high streets left it will be too late.”

“At our workshops you will experience the fun of playing with flowers and creating something beautiful. We hope this will inspire you to explore your local shops and discover what it is to be real. Support your local shops now. Because we’re worth it!”

New research conducted by iZettle has revealed that one in three UK consumers believe they are addicted to online shopping. Meanwhile, 35% claim the shop too much through one-click buys and repeat purchasing online with giant retailers.

The research also shows that 42% of respondents claim they shop too much online with giant retailers in general, with one in 12 respondents admitting to making purchases every day.

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iZettle managing director Edward Hallett said: “Our research shows that it is time for consumers to start thinking about their shopping habits, and choices, to keep the high street alive. Small businesses are the backbone of the economy and create a world with choice and diversity. That’s why we provide them with powerful business tools so they can succeed in a world where big businesses are taking over.”

The company believes that if consumer habits will not change, the high street crisis could leave 100,000 retail stores empty in the next decade.

The Giant Corp Rehab Centre will be open from 10 am to 5:30 pm on Friday 12 October and Saturday 13th October in Redchurch Street, Shoreditch.

The rehab centre is a part of a wider iZettle marketing campaign encouraging UK consumers to support local, independent businesses. The company aims to lead the debate regarding big corporations effect on society and celebrate the diversity self-made small businesses bring to society.

iZettle’s campaign is live in tube stations across London and will be broadcast online, in cinema, and on primetime television during October.