I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.
1. Your spending will boost the local economy
Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.
2. It is the ethical choice
Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.
3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts
Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.
4. You can help build communities
Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.
5. You might get a better deal or some good advice
Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.
So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday for the next month I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Blondes Coffee Shop -
Situated in
the East Riding village of Cottingham this coffee shop is a little slice of
heaven ( as is their cake!) Having converted to veganism a while ago now I
visited here after many recommendations from vegan and non-vegan friends. , I
was happy to say Blondes did not disappoint. As an animal lover I was delighted
to see their love of dogs(Blondes is a Vegetarian / vegan dog café) and they
are involved not only in the vegan community but also the local animal community
with collection boxes for both money and donations such as dog food, blankets
etc . They also have a gift shop which sells beautiful little trinkets which
make for super pressies.
Now getting
to the food! They always have tons of pastys and cakes (even vegan and gluten
free!) too choose from as well as sandwiches, jacket potatoes and toasties; they
also have milkshakes (with whipped vegan cream!) And lots of different teas and coffees made
your choice of milk. There is always gluten free bread too for sandwiches which
is a winner with me. The staff are
friendly and helpful, often going out of their way to ensure you are happy, the
prices are extremely reasonable and with the great location on the high street it's
the perfect place for a bite to eat!
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