A whopping number of you heard our cry to support small businesses when we went into lockdown in March. In lieu of hugs and holding hands, you sent thoughtful tokens, gifts and cards to loved ones, while our small creative business Partners worked day and night – carving, baking, sourcing and making – to help you stay connected. While we can’t thank you enough for that, the fight isn’t over.
We commissioned some independent research into the health of small businesses up and down the country (from local butchers to bakers and bicycle makers) and the results show that they still really need our help. With the high street reopening, one in 12 small UK businesses admit that they are just weeks away from shutting up shop for good, while over half are at risk of closing in the next year. Well, we can’t have that, can we? Here are just a few of many reasons why everyone should be shopping small...
Each and every item is made or sourced by someone who cares, which means you're more likely to discover one-of-a-kind finds you can give or keep with pride. By supporting small creative businesses, you’re voting with your money for the kind of world you want to live in. (Permission to feel pleased with yourself, granted.) For example, there’s...
Manmeet designs, makes and hand-paints one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces in her home studio just outside of London. “I create simple, stylish ceramics with a soft, luxurious feel, inspired by nature, mindfulness and my love of travel.”
Bobby and Kate create strikingly elegant personalised prints inspired by their love of mid-century illustrations. “We’re really passionate about timeless design, and our focus is on quality as we make each piece.”
Katherine creates boxes of beautifully preserved foliage and flowers. “Flowers bring so much joy but don’t last long. We harvest them in full bloom and treat them naturally to keep their fresh look for at least a year.”
Our Partners aren’t just selling items for you and your loved ones. They’re actively doing good by us and planet Earth by creating sustainable products, donating profits to charity and empowering young women, among other things. Meet a few of them...
Founders Lucie and Charlie are kickstarting a kindness revolution with their clothing business, where a donation is made to the children’s mental health charity YoungMinds with every purchase.
A stylish alternative to single-use coffee cups, water bottles, straws and bags. Ten percent of profits go to the Marine Conservation Society, who work tirelessly to clean our oceans and beaches.
Founders Camilla and Holly work closely with small farming communities in Africa who, in times of drought, turn to the art of weaving. The result is handmade, totally unique baskets.
A heartfelt thank you for all your support so far – from us and our Partners. It really means the world. Here are a few more ways you can help… By sharing online reviews and sending thoughtful messages to small businesses you know. By liking them on social media and tagging friends so they can support them too. And by purchasing gift cards for others, so they can discover their own favourite independents. Together, the difference we can make is monumental.
