Small businesses are heart of communities
December 2 marked the fifth year of Small Business Saturday, a campaign which encourages consumers to shop local and support small businesses in their communities.
A few days beforehand I was privileged to speak in a debate in the Scottish Parliament which promoted the value of small businesses, which are the lifeblood of Scotland’s economy and the backbone of communities across the country.
Whilst multi-national companies and superstores with well-established reputations can all too often be the default choice for many consumers, small businesses are woven into the fabric of our society.
They keep our high streets alive and they provide a variety of bespoke and artisan services that large companies cannot compete with. Scottish Government figures show that small and medium-sized enterprises account for 55 per cent of private sector employment and 40 per cent of private sector turnover, providing much-needed local jobs and, in turn, economic growth in our communities.
Last year my constituency was the home of around 1600 registered businesses, the vast majority of which were small businesses of all varieties, catering to the needs of locals and visitors but also driving the local economy.
On Small Business Saturday itself I thoroughly enjoyed visiting many small businesses around the constituency and it was very evident how many give back so much to the local communities they proudly serve.
Of course, most don’t openly broadcast their good deeds. They don’t look for any recognition. The help they give others is done without fanfare or announcement but their communities are well aware of the great work that they do.
In Parliament I was pleased that I was able, on behalf of those communities, to say thank you to the many small businesses who, through their time, generosity and kindness, make the lives of their fellow citizens a little bit easier.
Our small local businesses support local people and local projects and without them our communities would be worse off. Small Business Saturday may only be one day in the calendar year but it should act as a reminder to shop locally all year round. With Christmas approaching, whether you are looking for Christmas gifts, out for food and drinks or even just doing a bit of home shopping, please consider doing so locally.
Last month we witnessed a great example of community spirit in Blantyre when organisations, businesses and residents stepped up to support Blantyre Miners’ Welfare Social Club after the devastating fire at the Blantyre Miner’s Welfare Community Resource Centre. The centre was used by many groups and organisations, many of whom lost vital equipment.
Thankfully no one was hurt in the fire and the welcome news is that the social club remains open for business and, in time, the resource centre will be fully rebuilt. Meantime, in true Blantyre style, the community has rallied round and through various events and activities have raised funds to assist the clubs and groups affected. Well done.
Politically, this has been a very busy year with council elections and a snap general election. Plus there has been the continuing uncertainty that surrounds the Brexit saga, which seems to deliver a new twist every week. I suspect that next year could be just as busy and interesting as 2017.!
With the festive season now upon us, I would like to wish all my constituents in Blantyre a very happy and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous 2018.
They keep our high streets alive and provide services that large companies cannot compete with