How to support local independent businesses during the COVID-19 restrictions

Christmas is usually one of the busiest and most lucrative times of the year for local businesses. Whether it’s shoppers buying gifts for loved ones, families and friends enjoying meals and drinks in family-run restaurants or people visiting salons for a pre-Christmas pamper, entrepreneurs usually look to December with delight not dread.

As restrictions on social gatherings and footfall continue for non-essential local businesses, there are many ways that you can do your bit to support the local economy and keep cherished businesses afloat beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Find out if your local retailers have launched online

Some local businesses have used the COVID-19 lockdowns to turn their attentions towards e-commerce opportunities. In fact, e-commerce has been the lifeline of so many small retailers, allowing them to deliver goods and services, even if they cannot serve customers face-to-face.

Whatever you need, double-check whether your local retailers have a functioning e-commerce website where you can buy the same items on your computer or smartphone.

2. Take advantage of click and collect or delivery services

Even if your trusted local retailers don’t have an e-commerce platform, it’s possible they may be continuing to trade using click and collect or their own delivery services.

Many small businesses have invested time and energy to ensuring their shop floors are COVID-secure, maintaining social distancing and keeping areas clean and sanitised, so you should be able to buy over the phone and pick up your purchases in confidence.

3. Make a commitment to your much-loved businesses via gift cards

If you are physically unable to use the local businesses and services that you value so highly, you can still financially support them if you wish. Many small firms are offering gift cards that can be purchased or downloaded as a gift to yourself or a loved one this Christmas. Buying the gift cards ensures local businesses maintain cash flow, securing work in advance for when normal service is resumed.

4. Share small business services on social media

When you make a purchase with a small business, however big or small, you are helping to realise an entrepreneur’s dream. Tens of thousands of small, local businesses are borne out of hobbies, with owners that have a genuine passion and flair for what they do. The easiest way you can support local firms is to use word of mouth on social media to share their products or services and make invaluable recommendations.

5. Sample the virtual Christmas markets for 2020

For many of us, Christmas markets are one of the most enjoyable ways to get into the festive spirit. By exploring the local artisans and producers that hand-craft gifts and products for Christmas, millions of us support local economies year in, year out. Although Christmas markets are a no-no this year, many are going online with virtual displays and demonstrations, followed by the chance to buy from local creatives online.

6. Embrace takeaways with your local pubs and eateries

Although it’s not quite the same as sitting down to eat together in a warm and welcoming public house or restaurant, you can help keep your favourite eateries in business during the lockdown by ordering takeaway meals direct from their kitchens. Many pubs and restaurants have set up takeaway booths at the entrance to their establishments, making it easy for you to order online or over the telephone and pick up delicious meals cooked by the same chefs you know and love, with zero staff contact necessary.

 

We’re less than three weeks away from this year’s Small Business Saturday campaign – a nationwide initiative designed to encourage people to buy local and raise awareness of the hugely gifted independent retailers that serve our local communities.

During 2019’s Small Business Saturday, 17.6 million consumers bought items from local businesses, turning over an estimated £800 million for the UK’s small business community. Although this year’s campaign has been forced to go virtual, by taking at least one of the six steps above you can do your bit to support entrepreneurs that are demonstrating heart and creativity to cope through the coronavirus crisis.

Date published 17 Nov 2020

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.