Why shopping small is so important this year
2020 has been a year full of ups and downs. Many of us have felt the strain of the various different challenges thrown at us during the last 12 months and, well, to say we're feeling a bit anxious to step into 2021 is an understatement.
There have been some wonderful things to come from this year though, and lots of people that have shown bravery and tenacity in difficult times. Nurses, doctors and carers to name a few. But there's also the people who have seen their livelihood struggle like never before, and who have had no choice but to adapt and overcome.
Small business owners from around the country have had one of their most challenging years ever in 2020, and continue to face uncertainty. Yet in the last year many of them have found new ways to offer their services, communicate with customers and operate in the face of a pandemic. Whether they've launched a website for the first time, begun contacting clients over Zoom calls, or started offering takeaway's instead of sit-down meals. After being forced to shut their doors for months at a time, they are still bravely carrying on.
They've proven over and over that small businesses really do keep the heart of our communities alive. From supporting the local economy, keeping people in jobs and offering their vital services to people in villages, towns and cities. They've provided groceries when larger supermarkets were struggling to stock loo roll and pasta. They've offered essential services such as optician appointments, housing repairs and delivery services. And they've also managed to lift our spirits by providing beauty treatments, takeaway pints and gorgeous gifts.
So, after the last year has highlighted how truly important our small businesses are in the UK, it's so important that we support them. Now more than ever. As convenient as it might be to order something from Amazon, if your local shop has it then why not buy it from them instead? You are more likely to see a friendly face, receive a more personalized service and also make that business owners day a bit brighter. If you can't afford to purchase an item, you can also support your local independent businesses by sharing their posts on social media for free, recommending them to friends, or even just popping by to show them support from the community. With your mask on of course.
We hope to see you in 2021, and also aim to support as many of our neighbouring small businesses as possible. If you are looking to buy a special piece of jewellery, would like something repaired or cleaned, or even just want some advice about a bespoke item, please don't hesitate to contact us. If you are also a small business in the North East, or maybe even further, and want to say hello then please reach out to us. Communities come in all shapes and forms.
