Saturday is Small Business Saturday all over the UK. Why does it matter you say? Well, when you think how the lead up to Christmas has changed so much over the years, like Black Friday offering huge discounts, it’s really had an impact with the small independents who very often offer handmade, artisan, crafted products and can’t offer the same level of discounts because … how can they? Why should they? If they offer great quality local products on a Thursday for full price it is hard to think a small indie can then offer the same product for 40% off to just compete with the Black Friday campaigns – more often than not hosted by huge corporations who are still making money on those crazy sounding prices.
So in 2010 American Express stepped in to help, offering a focus for small businesses to help the independent community thrive and celebrate what a small indie is all about. Supporting each other and in the words of Fark, a local Southsea artist, “Be excellent to each other”, which sums it all up really!
Did you know that of every £1.00 spent in a small, local business, 63p stays in the local economy? And that means Southsea on Saturday. So you can see the impact of choosing to shop local even in small amounts. With this in mind and knowing what you can give back to your local economy, look out for some exciting events this Small Business Saturday.
First up is the Traders Keep. A unique market experience at the Hotwalls which has carefully picked artisans to spread the Christmas love on Saturday and Sunday. Always in the Round Tower down in Old Portsmouth. This event is from 10am until 5pm both days.
Next is the Crafts in the Tower which is on Sunday and is being held in its usual place of the Square Tower in Hotwalls. It also hosts a cafe for amazing cakes and beverages alongside artists, crafters, artisans and much more. On from 11am until 4pm.
Finally, Love Southsea has their Christmas Market on both days this weekend which offers a lovely walk around Palmerston Road with a bustling atmosphere and plenty of stalls to check out, in between popping into our nice little indies for some fab Xmas presents.
So what have I loved on my travels around our local, small businesses that can tempt you to pop in?
Strong Island Clothing has its own beer for sale in kegs! Yes, you heard that right! Such a lovely unique gift for the beer fanatic in your life!
The Beehive has some gorgeous prints and gifts at lovely prices.
Rose Clover has some fabulous plant-focused gifts such as cactus lights, accessories and glasses for sale as well as their usual range of unusual and beautiful plants and flowers. Offering real designer pieces for great prices.
I could go on and on, but you will just have to go and have a wander yourself 🙂 Make a day of it and enjoy finding some truly unique gifts for the holidays knowing you’ve made a difference to your local businesses.
By Louise O’Brien
