Celebrating 'Small Business Saturday' in Bucks, Beds & Herts
This year seems more important than ever due to the pandemic
Today we're celebrating the independent shops of Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire on 'Small Business Saturday'.
Our amazing small and independent businesses have continued to adapt to the impact of Coronavirus.
They have worked hard to stay safe and stay open for us all.
From north to south and east to west of our region, many businesses will be part of this year's national Small Business Saturday event.
It hopes to encourage people to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities. Many businesses take part in the day by hosting events and offering discounts.
Now in its eighth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday has grown significantly each year with an estimated £800m spent in small businesses across the UK on the day last year, with a record turnout of 17.6 million people choosing to shop local that day alone.
Coronavirus lockdowns have boosted the nation's love for UK small businesses, with 59 per cent of Brits saying they now support their local businesses more than they did previously.
You can see the shops taking part across our region here.
We spoke to a florist in Princes Risborough, Fullers Flowers, about how there will always be the need for local business even with the growth of online.
This is owner, Lorna Brookes:
"I don't think there isn't room for niche, individual shops like us.
"We offer a different shopping experience.
"It's much less rushed and more personal here and in any of the small shops in Risborough.
"You haven't got the huge queues and things like that."
Merry Clickmas
Buckinghamshire Council are also asking residents to support our small and independent businesses this festive season when Christmas shopping.
Their 'Shop Local Merry Clickmas' page has links to local listings for Buckinghamshire businesses who are offering you the option of online shopping.
From Amersham to Aylesbury, Winslow to Wycombe, you can find gift inspiration whether you're looking something quirky for a Secret Santa or a special unique gift for friends and family.
Cabinet Member for Town Centre regeneration, Steve Bowles, said:
"Every pound you spend doing your Christmas shopping locally is the gift that really does keep on giving. It's a way of saying thank you to businesses who have stepped up to help our local communities.
"Not only will you find some great gifts, but crucially, you'll be ploughing money back into our local economy by supporting local producers and suppliers and helping to keep people in their jobs."
There's free parking in some council car parks in the run up to Christmas, with details posted on their website here.
Buckinghamshire Council are reminding shoppers that if you are going out and about, remember to follow the latest government Covid guidance for Tier 2.