Tendring District Council (TDC) is celebrating the district’s brilliant local shops this Small Business Saturday as Christmas shopping gets into its full festive swing.
The annual event, which this year takes place on Saturday, 7 December, is a great opportunity to show appreciation for the small businesses that are the backbone of our community and economy.
Small businesses play a crucial role in our district, providing unique products and services, creating jobs, and fostering a sense of community.
Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Cabinet Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “Small Business Saturday is a wonderful initiative that highlights the importance of shopping locally to ensure our high streets remain vibrant.
“Our small businesses are not just places to shop - they are integral parts of our community and contribute significantly to our local economy and the character of our district.
“Now is the perfect time to explore what our local entrepreneurs have to offer, find unique Christmas gifts, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
“We want to encourage everyone to take part in Small Business Saturday. Whether you’re buying gifts, enjoying a meal, or simply exploring the shops, your support makes a difference.”
Sue Quilter, from Short n’ Sweet traditional sweet shop in Dovercourt, called on local people to explore their town’s local shops this weekend.
She said: “Dovercourt is a lovely little town centre and we have got loads of independent business, lots of family run shops and quirky little shops – it is a really nice, family-friendly town.
“As a small business, we love being friendly and getting to know customers. You don’t get that in a lot of big shops. To us, people are more important than profit.”
Mike McLain runs Great Danes in Connaught Avenue, Frinton, a giftshop that celebrates Danish and Scandinavian design.
He said: “Big businesses bring a lot to a community, but small businesses are the lifeblood of England and we should support them all.
“Our town centre is great in that we have a functioning high street – and our goal is to put Frinton on the map and bring even more people to our lovely town.”
Olivia Reilly, from Little Boat Gifts in Brightlingsea, added: “People should support small businesses like ours because it is good for the local community.
“We’re not just a gift shop - we are part of the community. We support local events by being a box office, organising raffles and even organising events for local charities.”
Claire Oakley, from Frippery lifestyle boutique in High Street, Manningtree, added: “Supporting small business at Christmas is really good.
“We are involved in the community and support the community. Our shops are our livelihood – we’re not a big corporation.
“We do everything ourselves and hopefully make it a nice shopping experience for all of our customers.”
Over the decade it has been running in the UK, Small Business Saturday has engaged millions of people and seen billions of pounds spent on the day.
Small Business Saturday also offers free training and support opportunities for small – including online training and mentoring.
To join the campaign – which regularly trends on social media - use the hashtag #SmallBizSatUK.
For more details about Small Business Saturday, go to smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com.
