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.
And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support 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 I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce Nick of East Coast Bicycles, he says –
East Coast Bicycles is an award winning Bicycle Boutique and Emporium specialising in cool, retro and vintage style bicycles, Dutch bicycles, single speed and American beach cruiser bicycles. We have a good range of unique accessories including hand made wicker baskets and gorgeous hand made leatherette panniers. We encourage individuality and promote social cycling to all ages and organise weekly, monthly and yearly cycle events for customers and the general public. We even have a little shop dog called Lily Dog who has her own blog!
The store features -
- *Trained bike mechanics
*Bike servicing
- Sale bikes included
*Click and collect
- *Home delivery
If you fancy the ride on a Tuesday night it does not matter what colour your bike is just as long as it is fixed wheel or single speed! Then you can join the ECB Knights fixed wheel/single speed ride this every Tuesday eve. Meet at East Coast Bicycles for a 7pm leave. Bring lights and beer money as we go to Queens after the ride.
www.eastcoastbicycles.co.uk
01482 342894
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