Local MP Alan Mak has met local small business owners around the Havant Constituency to offer his support for Small Business Saturday, and called on residents to back their local high streets, small businesses and independent shops.
The Havant MP visited local small businesses around the Constituency, speaking with their owners about the current state of business, and encouraged them to get involved with the Small Business Saturday campaign.
Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities.
The day itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses.
Alan Mak MP met with Elaine at Tanya’s Kitchen in Leigh Park, Georgie and Greg at 1st Quay Fish and Chips in Purbrook, Katie at her pub The Maypole on Hayling Island, landlord Adrian at the Golden Lion in Emsworth, and Joanna at her recently opened studio Beauty Aesthetics in Emsworth.
Local MP Alan Mak said: “Small businesses are the backbone of our high streets and local economy. That’s why I am encouraging residents across the Havant Constituency to shop local this Small Business Saturday – and all year round. I have spoken to numerous small business owners and they have told me the extensive Government support such furlough and the energy price guarantee have been key to keeping their businesses afloat.”
Manageress at Tanya’s Kitchen Elaine said: “We are a very small independent business, and if you don’t use us, you’ll lose us”.
Katie, who at 25 is one of the youngest landladies in the South, said “I really think you need to start using local pubs rather than big chains because we’re here to help support the community, as well as the community supporting us.”
