FIRST came Black Friday, this week its ‘Small Business Saturday’.

It seems the gimmicks making their way across the Atlantic to get people to depart with their cash are growing.

But this campaign is about more than just ringing cash in at the tills.

Small Business Saturday was started in the US in 2010, by American Express, as a way to encourage people to shop in local, independent businesses across the country in the run up to Christmas.

This year is the launch of the un-commercial, unsponsored venture in the UK, delivered entirely by volunteers, individuals and organisations giving their time and expertise for free.

Enterprise and Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said: ‘Small businesses are the lifeblood of the UK economy and Small Business Saturday is a chance for everyone to get behind our small firms. It’s an idea that has taken off in America and is getting great support here too.’

Thriving high streets are important as community hubs for social interaction and provide jobs in the local economy.

But many town centres and high streets are struggling in the wake of online shopping and out of town centres.

On Saturday, December 7, a third of councils will be putting on events in town centres, webinars and videos will be posted online with tips on how to grow your business and advice for local and independent shop owners can be downloaded at https://www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

Post courtesy of Metro.