SUPPORT SMALL UK - Guest Blog Post By Natasha Trigg

13 Mar

With the growth of social media over the past few years it is highly likely you’ve come across a small business page or two. But what is a small business and is it just knitted scarves and handmade cards? No! (Well, there is knitted scarves and handmade cards but not as you know them). Small businesses have come a long way and I’m here to tell you all about it!

WHAT IS A SMALL BUSINESS?

Small business are companies that meet two of the following qualifications: a turnover of £5.6 million or less; a balance sheet of £2.8 million or less; and no more than 50 employees. These can be small retailers, service providers, consultants, construction companies, health care organisations, restaurants, and more – as long as they meet the criteria. Many businesses start out as sole traders but can also operate as partnerships or limited companies.

Nowadays you can find everything from a small business, from beautifully designed handmade children’s clothes, and handcrafted sterling silver jewellery, to nourishing face masks and bespoke dog collars! But, small businesses are more than about what they sell, but also about their values and practices.

Most small business owners start small businesses not for the money but for the passion.

Image tags - @jinnynguidesign, @little_acorn_makes, @lisapreyer, @juniorandbear, @lockanddale

This means that often supporting a small business results in supporting a business that:

Ethically and sustainably sources its materials.
Is conscious about their environmental impact.
Want’s to provide the best customer service possible, as every customer matters.
Pays attention to every detail, resulting in higher quality products and service.

WHY SHOULD YOU SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES?

You’ve probably heard it many times ‘Support Small’, ‘Shop small’, ‘Buy independent’ – but do you know why? It’s not all about making someone do a happy dance or putting food on someone’s table – there is so much more to it! Small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy, so yes whilst you are supporting peoples’ livelihoods, you are also ensuring the money you work so hard to earn, is going back in to our economy instead of lining the pockets of billionaires.

In 2021 micro businesses (less than 10 employees) turned over a combined amount of £953 billion, helping strengthen the UK economy! With the current financial crisis our economy needs that more than ever. (source: Bionic)

HOW TO SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES

We know it’s not possible or realistic to shop from small businesses all the time, but we can strive to do so more and change our current shopping habits. For example:

Next time you go to head to a big retailer, stop and think – can I get this from a small business.
If there is a price difference is this compensated by the quality, environmental impact, fair pay?
If it is a gift for someone would they prefer quality over quantity, perhaps something personalised?
Popping out for food or grabbing a coffee, choose an independent establishment over a chain.

Supporting small businesses doesn’t have to always cost money it can be as simple as giving a business a follow on social media!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Support Small UK was founded in 2020 by Natasha Trigg. After supporting her sister with her small business, Natasha became passionate about supporting small and loved the ethos of the small business community. Drawing on previous experience and education Natasha set up Support Small UK which as at February 2023 was a community of over 41,000 across Instagram and Facebook.

In January 2023 Natasha launched The Support Small UK Emporium. An online platform dedicated to helping small and independent UK businesses get the exposure they deserve, without the hefty price tags. The Support Small UK Emporium offers a vast array of products from independent UK talent- clothes, accessories, artwork, jewellery, homeware and more - that can be browsed and bought conveniently online. Add your voice in championing local small businesses and show your love for UK-based entrepreneurial talents by shopping at The Support Small UK Emporium.