Secretary of State backs Small Business Saturday

As Secretary of State Karen Bradley paid a visit to long-established family firm Wardens and other traders in Newtownards on Friday, Retail NI chief Glyn Roberts urged consumers to rally in support of their local independent retailers.

“These independent traders are the heart of local communities and the economy throughout Northern Ireland and the wider UK,” Ms Bradley said.

“I would encourage everyone to show their full support for their local small businesses. They provide vital support and services to local people not just on Small Business Saturday, but all year round.”

Mr Roberts said: “Independent retailers and small business owners are working harder then ever to provide top level choice, quality and service this Christmas and we urge shoppers to make a special effort to support them on Saturday and throughout the Christmas period”

Keith Irvine, Wardens general manager said: “Independent retailers offer so much to the ensuring the vibrancy and diversity of town centres.

“Small Business Saturday is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this as well as all of the small businesses that are so vital to our economy and daily lives. As high street retailing faces challenging times our ability to adapt and offer new experiences to customers is essential and we are looking forward to a busy day of special events on Saturday.”