Personally Speaking – October

It’s almost that time of year when, as the festive season approaches, high streets across Stoke-on-Trent begin to sparkle with Christmas lights, displays, and the welcoming warmth of our local shops and cafes.

But behind every window display and every shop counter is a story of hard work, commitment, and deep community pride.

That’s why I’ve launched a campaign to celebrate the incredible small businesses that help make Stoke-on-Trent Central the place we’re all proud to call home.

In the run-up to Small Business Saturday on December 6, a national day dedicated to supporting and spot lighting independent businesses, I’m inviting residents from across the city to nominate their favourite local enterprises in my constituency, Stoke-on-Trent Central, for special recognition as part of my Small Business Awards.

Whether it’s the friendly corner shop you rely on, the barber who remembers your last cut, the baker who knows your favourite treat, a solicitor, accountant or the cafe that’s kept you caffeinated through thick and thin, I want to hear about them.

Small businesses are more than just bricks and mortar, they are the lifeblood of our communities.

They create jobs, support our local economy, and make our high streets vibrant and unique.

National chains offer convenience, but it’s our independents who add character and heart to our neighbourhoods.

In Stoke-on-Trent Central, we’re lucky to have some truly outstanding independent traders. From Hanley to Fenton, Bentilee to Hartshill and everywhere in between.

I’ve met countless local business owners who go above and beyond for their customers, often working long hours, investing their savings, and creating spaces that bring people together.

But we must take them for granted. Recent years have brought huge challenges: a pandemic that forced many to shut their doors because of rising costs, supply chain issues, and uncertain times for the high street.

Yet through it all, our small businesses have shown remarkable resistance.

Small Business Saturday is a reminder to support these wonderful businesses, not just with our words, but with our wallets.

The aim of this campaign is simple: to shine a spotlight on the amazing work being done by small business owners in our area and to encourage more people to shop local this December.

Residents can nominate their favourite independent business via my website at garethsnell.org.uk/sme_awards

Every nominated business will:

• Be featured on my social media channels;
• Receive a poster to proudly display in their shop window.

It’s a small way of saying thank you, and giving local businesses a boost at one of the most important times of the year for retail and hospitality.

Every pound spent with a local business stays in the community longer.

It helps sustain local jobs, supports local supply chains, and strengthens our economy from the ground up.

But it’s also about the experience. Shopping and spending local often means better customer service, personal recommendations, and knowing that your money is going to someone who genuinely cares about their craft and their community.

Let’s also not forget that many of these businesses give back, sponsoring local teams, donating raffle prizes, hosting community events, and being there when the neighbourhood needs a helping hand.

These are the businesses that helped keep spirits up during lockdowns.

They adapted to serve us through delivery, click-and-collect, and creative ways of staying open. Now it’s our turn to return the favour. 

I believe that Stoke-on-Trent is a city that backs its own. We’re proud of our roots, proud of our work ethic, and proud of the people who make our city tick. This campaign is about celebrating that spirit.

It doesn’t take much, picking up your gifts from a local maker, getting your party from an independent retailer and using the local greengrocer and butcher for your Sunday lunch.

Together, we can help our high streets not just survive, but thrive.

Let’s show our small businesses the support they deserve.

Nominate your favourites today, and let’s make Small Business Saturday 2025 a celebration of everything that makes Stoke-on-Trent Central.