Tomorrow is Small Business Saturday. With the growing competition from supermarkets, high street chains and online; times have never been tougher for independent business.
The idea of Small Business Saturday was first conceived in the United States of America by American Express three years ago. So the idea has crossed the pond and not a moment too soon.
An interesting fact is that shopping locally keeps money in the local economy. Research shows that for every £100 spent in a local business, £68 is likely to stay in the community, as opposed to just £43 when spent in a chain.
In my community of Waterbeach this message is so important. Since the barracks closed, shops have reported losing as much as 50% of their trade.
Personally I have always been committed to doing everything I can to help. This includes building the ‘Shop Local’ scheme that has an active facebook page – www.facebook.com/shopwaterbeachward.
On November 25th I chaired the ‘Shop Local’ business summit at South Cambridgeshire District Council. This included Waterbeach shops/businesses, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Business, Deyton Bell and South Cambs District Council. From this the first ‘Shop Local business network breakfast meeting is to be held at the Beach Social Club on January 8th at 8am. The external business organisations commented on how unique it was to see such a sustained ‘Shop Local’ campaign in a community.
Don’t forget – support your independents tomorrow!
