Small Business Saturday returns to the UK on 3 December. The campaign is encouraging small business owners across the country to make the most of the spotlight, particularly as many enter the peak trading period amidst news the UK has entered recession.
Now in its tenth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday celebrates small business success. It also encourages people to ‘shop local’ and support businesses in their communities. On Small Business Saturday itself, customers across the UK support all types of small businesses, both online and in stores; from independent shops and restaurants to small service and b2b businesses.
Rosie Creyke owner of eco friendly fabric store Rosemary Wild at the Small Business Saturday Tour stop in Edinburgh
Firms urged to make the most of the spotlight on 3 December and beyond
As the campaign gears up to mark a decade in the UK, organisers are calling for a big show of support from the public to recognise the phenomenal contribution of small independents across their communities, particularly as business owners up and down the country face a major raft of economic challenges with the cost-of-living crisis.
New research from Small Business Saturday and American Express found that while 36% of small business owners feel optimistic about the next six months, 28% also say they feel stressed and nervous, and 69% are diversifying their business operations in response to current challenges.
Commenting is Michelle Ovens CBE, director of Small Business Saturday UK. “Small Business Saturday was created to offer small businesses a massive boost. This is particularly important at the moment when times are really challenging.
“Public support is vital and can make a powerful difference. This campaign is a chance to celebrate your amazing small business and the phenomenal contribution you make to your local area and the wider UK. Whatever your business, whatever your size, and wherever you are in your journey, Small Business Saturday is a chance for you to shine.”
For the Love of the North is an online and physical shop based in Whitley Bay selling prints, cards and gifts by Northern artists
Hosting events and collaborating with the local community are among the top ways businesses can celebrate
A grassroots, non-commercial campaign, Small Business Saturday UK is free and open to all small firms. Many small businesses celebrate by hosting events, offering promotions and collaborating with other local businesses.
The campaign was originally founded by American Express in the US in 2010. Over the time the campaign has been running in the UK, it has engaged millions around the value of small businesses, with billions spent with small firms on Small Business Saturday.
The trend to support small businesses has gained momentum in the UK. New data from Small Business Saturday and American Express found that 67% of small firms believe customers are shopping small to support them in the current climate.
As well as encouraging the public to support small businesses, organisers are also urging people to back their favourite independents in other ways. Whether that be leaving positive reviews, or spreading the word amongst friends and family.
Five ways businesses can celebrate Small Business Saturday
- Use the campaign to engage your customers by downloading marketing materials here.
- Host an event or run a special promotion.
- Join the conversation online using #SmallBizSatUK and tag @SmallBizSatUK in your celebrations.
- Team up with other small businesses and community groups such as your local council or BID to celebrate the campaign.
- Register to feature on the Small Business Finder map and app here.
