When we were asked to stay local, many of us relied very heavily on our local businesses. Now that travel restrictions have been lifted, it’s tempting to head to the large chain stores, but Small Business Saturday is an important reminder to continue to support our local small businesses.
Especially with restrictions in place that affect many hospitality outlets, it’s more important than ever to get behind our local pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants. They’ve worked really hard during the pandemic to comply with the regulations and keep their premises Covid-secure.
Being a small business owner, the responsibility for keeping customers safe falls solely on their own shoulders, and we shouldn’t underestimate the toll this takes. Mike Williams is a is a small business owner in Blaenau Gwent:
“As with many other businesses we operate in many different circles. Each time we meet new customers or clients we are gambling - that we don’t become part of the chain of infection. Making sure everyone follows the new and safe methods of working is stressful. I have a duty of care to all of my customers, and I’m aware this indirectly extends beyond our customers and clients and on to more vulnerable people that they may come into contact with. This hasn’t been easy for me but then it hasn’t been easy for anyone.”
Peredur Owen Griffiths, Plaid Cymru candidate for Blaenau Gwent in the Senedd elections says:
“We can help small business owners like Mike – they have worked hard to keep their working practices and premises safe, we can do our bit by shopping local. Keeping our local traders is just as important as keeping our local business premises going. Our town centres and the people who provide services are the hub of our community, and it’s really important we protect them when they need us most.”
We can all help support our local businesses safely, by observing the precautions they have in place, by keeping 2 metres from other customers and by wearing a face covering indoors, if you are able.