SHOPPERS came out to support small businesses on the annual Small Business Saturday as they head into the crucial festive trading period.
Small Business Saturday promotes small businesses and the difference they make to the local community and economy.
Small Business Saturday 2021 marks the ninth year of the event in the UK, and the campaign has grown significantly each year. In 2020, £1.1billion was spent with small businesses across the day.
In Worcester the annual Victorian Fayre took place on the same weekend as Small Business Saturday. Traders benefitted from higher footfall as visitors came to enjoy a series of artistic performances while shopping in local businesses.
Small businesses have faced a tough time during the pandemic, though government support has helped alleviate the pressure.
Worcester MP Robin Walker has encouraged residents and visitors to the city to spend their money locally to ensure the business community continues to thrive.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community. They are often run by local people and provide jobs for the local area. It is vital that we support small businesses all year round, but I am grateful for the organisers of Small Business Saturday who recognise their contribution every year,” he said.
“I was able to meet with Tim Evans of Toys and Games of Worcester, where I was able to get an early start on the family Christmas presents.
“Earlier this month the businesses on Broad Street faced the added challenge of emergency closures after the Poundland building was declared unsafe following damage as a result of Storm Arwen.
“I was glad to see the street opened in time for the Fayre and I know further steps are being taken to show the buildings in that area are open for business.”
