A host of independent gift businesses have been chosen as part of a line-up of 100 inspirational UK entrepreneurs to officially kick off this year’s Small Business Saturday UK, as its one-hundred-day count-down gets underway.
Aiming to support, celebrate and send out a ‘big thank you’ to small businesses for the important role they play within communities, particularly throughout the pandemic, Small Business Saturday UK is showcasing a diverse range of 100 independent businesses from across the country in its 2021 Small Biz 100.
This year’s line-up involves a range of gifting companies including independent stores and online start-ups.
Now in its ninth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday will return on 4 December 2021. Last year saw record-breaking success, with around £1.1 billion being spent with UK small businesses on the day.
This 2021 Small Biz 100 also features a range of environmentally conscious small firms; highlighting their important role in tackling the climate crisis ahead of the UN Climate Summit COP26 in Glasgow this November.
Commenting is Michelle Ovens CBE, director of Small Business Saturday UK. “Throughout the crisis, we have been reminded of the special role that small firms play in local communities. The stories of this year’s Small Biz 100 really bring this to life.
“As the UK recovers from the pandemic, small businesses still face considerable challenges to get back on their feet. It’s important we continue to support them. We are excited to be kicking off this year’s campaign to show our thanks to small businesses and encouraging everyone to get behind us.”
A grassroots, not-for-profit campaign, Small Business Saturday UK celebrates small business success and encourages consumers to shop small and support businesses in their communities.
The campaign was originally founded by American Express in the US in 2010. Dan Edelman, general manager UK, Global Merchant and Network Services, American Express, says; “This year’s Small Biz 100 goes to show just how creative and vibrant our small business community is in the UK.
“More than ever, it feels important to celebrate the achievements of all the independent businesses that go above and beyond for their customers every day. We’re honoured to play our part supporting them through our Shop Small campaign and as principal supporter of Small Business Saturday.”
On Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses; both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Many small businesses take an active role in promoting the day by hosting events and offering promotions.
Small Business Saturday attracts huge attention on the day itself, with an impact that lasts all year. Last year, the campaign trended at number one in the UK on Twitter. The Prime Minister, leader of the opposition and the Mayor of London were among those publicly supporting the campaign. Plus, over 90 per cent of local councils.
For further information and to get involved in Small Business Saturday 2021, please click here.
