Suffolk shoppers urged to support smaller businesses this festive season
It's Small Business Saturday today
Christmas shoppers in Suffolk are being encouraged to buy local and support their high streets this festive season.
It's Small Business Saturday today - an annual event which aims to get us all to check out independent retailers - rather than relying on online shopping or bigger brands.
Organisers say it could provide a "lifeline" for smaller companies in the important run-up to Christmas - with the public expected to direct up to a fifth of its Christmas spending towards independent firms.
This means the small business economy could tap into around £4.4 billion.
Candy Richards is Suffolk's rep for the Federation of Small Businesses and says it's crucial people support independent stores: "It's really important we all support small businesses during the festive season.
"If we don't, come January, there might be fewer around...
"Many households are struggling with the cost of living and small businesses will be nervous the continued squeeze on household budgets will impact sales."
Candy suggests shopping at local businesses could actually help save some money though: "It can be a common misconception that shopping in a small business will naturally mean a product or service will be more expensive but actually that's not always the case.
"Many small businesses have much smaller overheads than large businesses."
It's not just shoppers that can help small businesses either - Candy says local leaders should also be playing their part: "It's vital that local authorities look at supporting pop-up shops and temporary spaces to give more small businesses the opportunity to spread their wings and get a foothold on the high street.
"It will give shoppers and small businesses a much richer experience."
What is Small Business Saturday?
Small Business Saturday is an annual campaign with a mission to support and celebrate the UK's 5.5 million small businesses, encouraging people to "shop local" and support small firms in their communities on the day and beyond.
"Small businesses deliver an immeasurable value that goes beyond their economic contribution - they are the heart and soul of our communities, bringing joy and vibrancy to our lives and local areas, as well as delivering essential local services," said Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday UK.
"Public support is absolutely vital for boosting small businesses across the UK on Small Business Saturday and beyond.
"Many are facing extended economic challenges, and need greater support and confidence to recover and keep going."
Small Business Saturday was originally founded by American Express in the United States in 2010, and it remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK.