This ad will be closed automatically in X seconds.

Shoppers support local retailers in Christmas run-up

Figures just released show that over half of consumers are planning to support small businesses in the final run up to Christmas. The study from Paymentsense shows that over 28% plan to shop in small businesses regardless of location, and more than 23% will do so locally.

Over a third (35%) of consumers said they are supporting local retailers (as well as local cafes and services) over the Christmas period because they are concerned about the decline of the high street, suggesting that national and regional campaigns promoting local businesses are starting to have an influence.

“There have been several supportive campaigns aimed at consumers which specifically promote buying from smaller local businesses at Christmas,” commented Guy Moreve, cmo at Paymentsense. “We’re hoping our study is the first sign that these efforts are having a positive impact, and that consumers are rallying behind small businesses at this time of year.”

Some 31% believe that small businesses are an important part of the community, while over a quarter said they support their local businesses all year round – not just at Christmas. Nearly a fifth of respondents said they knew many of their local business owners and wanted to support them during important trading times.

Above: Inside Labour and Wait, one of the independent retailers in Visa’s Christmas advertisement.
Above: Inside Labour and Wait, one of the independent retailers in Visa’s Christmas advertisement.

From a regional perspective, 58% of those in Bristol, and 56% of Londoners, indicated they will support small businesses over Christmas, locally or otherwise. Almost half (49%) of respondents from Manchester fell into this category, while slightly fewer people from Birmingham said they would shop at SMEs over the festive period (31%).

The research also found that those with higher incomes are more likely to support small businesses in the run up to Christmas. Consumers are less concerned by slower service or higher prices when they shop locally. The study found that one in four (38%) overlook these issues if the business is near their home.

 

Top: Visa is behind one of the campaigns to muster support for the high street this Christmas. One of its High Street stars (featured in its TV advertisement) is housewares stockist, Labour and Wait in London’s Shoreditch.

MORE NEWS
MadMarchMillion
 
With a few days still left to go of March, team PH has reached 1,144,452 steps in support of industry charity, The Rainy Day Trust....
Blaise 2
 
Blaise International is introducing Kleine Wolke, a renowned European brand with a rich heritage in producing bathroom textiles since 1968....
Inspired Home Show 2024
 
A new show layout and strong exhibitor and retailer participation at the show, resulted in enhanced discovery, connections and commerce....
Cureatology MADE
 
Following its launch into Heal's earlier this month, new tableware brand, Cureatology has made its debut on MADE.com....
Keeeper
 
The keeeper Group is the latest housewares company to join BHETA. ...
BIRA x Retra
 
BIRA has announced the merger of Retra, the Radio, Electrical and Television Retailers' Association, marking a milestone in their histories....
Get the latest news sent to your inbox
Subscribe to our daily newsletter

The list doesn't exist! Make sure you have imported the list on the 'Manage List Forms' page.