MP urges people to shop local after celebrating ‘Small Businesses Saturday’ in Heywood

Elsie Blundell MP on Small Business Saturday

Elsie Blundell MP has praised the quality and variety of small businesses in her constituency, Heywood and Middleton North, after a visit to the growing Heywood Market for Small Business Saturday, 7 December, and calls on people to do their Christmas shop locally.

“The range of shops was excellent, with lots of ideas for Christmas presents, but I was also surprised how many day to day items were available,” says Elsie.  “The opening of a greengrocer has meant fresh fruit and veg is now on offer, and it is proving very popular.  The confirmation that a cycling pop up is returning is also good news.”

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots campaign which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' in their communities on the first Saturday in December each year.

“Our High Streets and markets can be vibrant success stories for business.  They are places to try new ideas and find their feet, building connections with customers.  Specialist shops like the haberdasher in Heywood Market can find a loyal customer base, and one place even has Hollywood stars come in for their Yorkshire Wraps.”

Elsie continues, “The Labour Government is doing their part to help small businesses, lowering business rates on the high street and making online giants pay their fair share.  Raising the National Insurance Threshold to £10,500 means that many small businesses won’t pay any NI, and protecting shop workers from violence with new laws.”

“But the best thing any of us can do to help is to go and shop in our markets and high streets for Christmas.  I had a great morning at Heywood Market.  It’s great value, and fun, for everyone. “