‘Tis the season to celebrate local Lewisham businesses
On Saturday 5th December to coincide with Small Business Saturday Lewisham Council is launching Shop Local Shop Safe. The campaign will champion fantastic local, independent businesses in the run-up to Christmas.
It has been a challenging year for small businesses. The economic impact continues to be felt across the borough and many businesses have been forced to close for a substantial period or to adapt their services. As London enters Tier 2 restrictions our high streets are reopening and the council is continuing its work to support the boroughs local economy.
Lewisham Council has provided small businesses with over £40 million in grants so far this year. There is still financial assistance available for businesses in the hospitality, over-night accommodation and leisure sectors that were forced to close due to national or Tier 2 restrictions. Businesses are being encouraged to apply for further financial support via the council website.
The council's Shop Safe Shop Local campaign will run throughout December and will include a series of weekly blogs to provide inspiration and give residents plenty of reasons to shop locally this Christmas. There is something for every festive need on our doorstep, whether online or in person. Delivered with a personal touch you would never get from a major retailer.
To celebrate Small Business Saturday on 5th December Lewisham Council will be dedicating its Twitter account to local businesses. They will be encouraged, alongside residents, to take to the social media platform to promote either their own services or their favourite shops and venues using hashtag #SmallBizSatUK.
Helen McIntosh, President of the South East London Chamber of Commerce (SELCC) said:
“SELCC is delighted to again support Small Business Saturday. We see this as a wonderful opportunity for businesses and residents to work together: Keep Shopping locally.”
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Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) London Regional Chair, Michael Lassman says:
“Along with the Council, FSB asks shoppers across the borough of Lewisham to buy from, and celebrate, their local and independent businesses who have suffered unprecedented pressure throughout 2020 and desperately need a boost from you, their local community in the run-up to Christmas.”
Lewisham has Christmas wrapped up. Shopping locally is good for business and for the local economy. And having so much choice within walking distance means less use of public transport which helps slow the spread of COVID-19. That’s a win-win.
Cllr Joe Dromey said:
“Small businesses have been hit hard by the pandemic, many reopened for the first time in a month on Wednesday. We can all do our bit to safely support local small businesses and protect local jobs. As we gear up for Christmas, and to echo the sentiments of Small Business Saturday, we are urging residents to Shop Local Shop Safe”