Small Business Saturday - Lib-Dems urge Oldhamers to shop local

Small Business Saturday this weekend is an annual event to promote the virtues of shopping with small and local businesses

As the national lockdown lifts this week and so-called non-essential shops open once more in time for Christmas, Liberal Democrat councillors are asking local shoppers to consider giving more of their custom to smaller independent shops across the Borough.

Locals are urged to give that some serious thought before heading out to large store chains or buying gifts from online megastores. 

Small Business Saturday (December 5) is an annual event to promote the virtues of shopping with small and local businesses.

Councillor Howard Sykes MBE, Leader of the Oldham Liberal Democrats, is a big fan.

He said: “As someone brought up in family-run shop in Shaw, I believe that shopping in a small store is more friendly, more personable and more fun. 

"There is no joy in fighting your way through Christmas crowds in a large department store and shopping online means you are denying yourself yet another opportunity for social interaction.

“Your local independent shops and small businesses are the lifeblood of your community, offering a range of goods and services that are vital to customers, yet 2020 has been a horrible year for many of them financially. 

"Instead of backing the owner of Amazon, who frankly doesn’t need the money, why don’t you instead support your local business? 

"You will help keep local people in work and help support your local high street, but you will also get a good deal and receive a personal service in return.”

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