Coronavirus lockdowns are boosting the nation’s love for UK small businesses, with 59% of Brits saying they now support local businesses more than previously.
Research commissioned by American Express and Small Business Saturday UK underscores the huge role small firms have played in supporting their communities through lockdown; with many pivoting to offer people new products and services such as deliveries, takeaways and virtual consultations.
This has led to a big rise in public support.
Over a third of people said they will continue their backing in the same way as they did before Covid-19; despite the recession. This surge in affection will be vital for Small Business Saturday, which takes place on 5 December 2020. A grassroots, non-commercial campaign, it celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ to support their communities.
Commenting is Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday. “This crisis has brought home just how much small firms are at the heart of our communities.
“They have been there for customers and shown strength, determination and agility in coping. It’s no wonder that support for Britain’s small businesses is rocketing. It’s vital we continue to support small businesses as this crisis continues, which is why we are determined to make this year’s campaign the most impactful ever.”
Now in its eighth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday has grown significantly each year.
An estimated £800m was spent in small businesses across the UK on the day last year. There was also a record turnout of 17.6 million people choosing to shop local that day alone.
Small Business Saturday was originally founded by American Express in the US in 2010. American Express remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK as part of its avid championing of the UK high street and commitment to encourage consumers to shop small.
Also commenting is American Express’ general manager UK, Global Merchant and Network Services, Dan Edelman. “Our local communities are richer and more vibrant for the presence of these independents and people across the UK are behind them like never before.
“It’s so important that we all continue to support our favourite local small businesses. We’re proud to play our part as principal supporter of Small Business Saturday and through our own Shop Small campaign”.
In the run-up to Small Business Saturday UK, the campaign will kick off an online tour in November; virtually visiting more than 33 towns and cities across the UK.
