According to a recent survey, the nation’s loyalty to small businesses has increased considerably during the pandemic.
The poll of 1,000 UK shoppers, commissioned by American Express and Small Business Saturday UK, highlighted the key role small firms have played in their local communities throughout the pandemic. The public appear to be appreciative of these efforts with the research revealing that 59% of shoppers now support local businesses more than previously.
This year’s Small Business Saturday event is due to take place on 5 December – just days after the scheduled end to England’s second lockdown. The campaign, now in its eighth year, encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and organisers hope the surge in public affection will provide a further boost to sales. Last year’s campaign saw a record 17.6 million shoppers spend around £800m across the UK.
Michelle Ovens, Director of Small Business Saturday, commented, “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 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.”