Earlier in the week, we told you about the upcoming 'Small business Saturday', the national day where you are encouraged to shop locally and support local businesses.
Well what is the best way for you to get involved then? Well, with the Christmas season approaching, there are a number of ways to join in with this campaign, and help support the local business owners in our communities.
Do your Christmas shop: You've probably already experienced the Christmas rush in the city centre, with the bright Christmas lights, people moving in all directions and queues at tills, it can sometimes be more of a stressful experience than a successful one. Searching for inspiration for gifts for those hard-to-buy-for friends and family members can be somewhat overwhelming amongst the huge variety on display, and then there's always the question of 'have they already got it.' Shopping locally can help you find some unique gifts which they (probably) don't have. As well as that you'll be supporting local retailers, many of whom make hand-made and bespoke items.
Eat locally: Why not take the opportunity this Saturday to avoid the supermarkets and use the local bakery, butcher and greengrocer to do some of your food shopping. While you won't find the big brands you'll find in the supermarkets, you will get some great, fresh produce, and you really will taste the difference. Why not take the opportunity to have a locally-sourced Christmas dinner? Find a local farm or butcher and order in your turkey for Christmas day, a great way of supporting the local businesses.
Avoid the parking of the big city: We all know what the roads near the city shops get like come Christmas shopping season, jam-packed. Walking out of your door or even driving to the local shops, is sure to be less busy, and therefore a much more relaxed experience. On top of that, if you do happen to drive, parking in local villages and towns is much more likely to be free.
Relax and enjoy: You could even take a break from your shopping to get a new hair-do at a local salon, and then stop for a bite to eat or a coffee at a local cafe. Supporting local businesses in these ways are a great boost to the area in general, and helps to invest money into the local economy.
This Saturday, why not make it your challenge to see how many small businesses you can visit?! There are many small businesses in the Olney and Newport Pagnell areas, and further afield, with some great products and services and some great people to get to meet! Who knows, you might even find your new local.
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