Shoppers encouraged to 'shop local'

Small business Saturday will encourage shoppers to buy locally this weekend.

Author: Rachael WhitePublished 2nd Dec 2023

The national campaign aims to highlight the success of small businesses and encourages customers to support them.

In the lead up to Christmas smaller stores struggle to compete with larger businesses.

The campaign states there are many ways to support local businesses, if you are not able make a purchase.

Such as, engaging with social media posts, leaving a review, or telling a friend about the store.

Dani Seatter, owner of Eco-Able in Cirencester said: "It really highlights and champions us.

"When you don't have a big advertising budget it's really hard to be seen amongst the big brands, so it's a really important campaign."

Small businesses have been struggling this year due to the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy prices.

Dani said: "Spending has gone down this year and it's tight for everybody.

"I've seen a lot of businesses fold this year, so I think support is hugely important for people like us."

Dani also said that shopping small is more sustainable.

She said: "The more local you're buying the better, it is because there's no airmiles.

"If you can walk into town you're not spending on petrol and generating emissions."

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