'Small business Saturdays' to aid local stores
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Britain should emulate the US by holding a "Small Business Saturday" to encourage people to shop in local independent stores, the shadow Business Secretary has said.
Labour MP Chuka Umunna has suggested making the day an annual event, starting on 7 December this year. On last year's equivalent day in the US, more than $5bn (£3.1bn) was spent in small shops.
Mr Umunna, pictured, said: "Establishing a Small Business Saturday in the UK, a concept which has enjoyed considerable success in the US, would provide a small but simple and effective way to celebrate local small businesses and encourage more people to buy from them on one of the busiest shopping days of the year.
He has asked American Express, which sponsors the American version, to look into holding a similar event in the UK.
The Department for Communities and Local Government said that it would consider the suggestion. Local Growth minister Mark Prisk said: "We're determined to offer practical support to our high streets."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments