Inspiring small business owners from across the UK attended a special event ahead of Small Business Saturday that took place last weekend
Rebecca Dickson co-founder of EcoFoundry was one of hundreds of inspirational small businesses attending a special reception at the House of Lords last Tuesday, to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Small Business Saturday campaign
Hosted by Small Business Saturday, in partnership with the campaign’s founder and principal supporter American Express, the event honoured EcoFoundry as part of this year’s SmallBiz100.
The SmallBiz100 is a line-up of 100 inspiring small businesses from all over the country, that are highlighted as part of the Small Business Saturday UK campaign. EcoFoundry was featured in recognition of their impressive entrepreneurial journey, which has seen them incorporate living plants to internal and external infrastructures..
The House of Lords event kicks off a week of celebrations ahead of Small Business Saturday, which took place on 3 December. The campaign celebrates small business success and encourages people to ‘shop local’ and support businesses in their communities.
Rebecca said, “I’m delighted to be a part of this year’s SmallBiz100, it’s an incredible opportunity providing small business owner’s like myself the experience to connect with like-minded individuals from across the country.”
Bringing together entrepreneurs from this year’s SmallBiz100 line-up and leaders from across the political spectrum, with the Shadow Secretary of State for Business and industrial Strategy, Jonathan Reynolds and Small Business Minister, Kevin Hollinrake both speaking at the event and meeting many small businesses.
‘It was wonderful to host this special event at the House of Lords and mark the achievements of EcoFoundry, as well as celebrating ten years of Small Business Saturday,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Busines Saturday UK.
“Things are tough for small businesses across the UK at the moment, and the aim of Small Business Saturday has always been to encourage small businesses, boost support and highlight the hugely positive role these firms play in our communities.”
A grassroots, not-for-profit campaign Small Business Saturday was originally founded by American Express in the U.S. in 2010. It remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK, as part of its ongoing support of the UK high street and commitment to encouraging consumers to shop small.
On Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, both online and in bricks-and-mortar stores; from independent shops and restaurants to small service and b2b based businesses like accountants and digital marketeers.
Many small businesses celebrate the day by hosting events, offering promotions, and collaborating with other small businesses.
Over the ten years the campaign has been running in the UK it has engaged millions around the value of small businesses, seen billions of pounds spent with small firms on Small Business Saturday and received widespread backing from political and business leaders.
Small Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake said: “It was fantastic to meet so many inspiring small business owners and hear first-hand how they are directly supporting the UK economy.
“I know it is a tough time for businesses and this government will continue to stand by them – whether it’s through our start up loan schemes and energy cost support to our £13.6 billion package for business rate payers, £500 million of which is earmarked specifically for small businesses.”
EcoFoundry will be celebrated Small Business Saturday by launching an exciting giveaway. This Christmas, EcoFoundry are donating to Spires Charity in association with Playback UK Radio. Spires is a South London based charity that helps hundreds of homeless and disadvantaged people all year round. Spires work to improve the quality of life for people who are homeless, insecurely housed, unemployed or suffering from the effects of poverty, mental health related issues and loneliness.
Dan Edelman, General Manager, UK Merchant Services at American Express, said: “This year we’re celebrating the 10th anniversary of this vital campaign and look forward to shining a spotlight on small businesses and the dedicated people running them. American Express is proud to play our part in championing the UK’s amazing small business community, as longstanding principal supporter of Small Business Saturday, and through our own Shop Small campaign.”
