Tag: shop local

Small Business Saturday: Edinburgh residents encouraged to shop local

Shop local this Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday returns this weekend (2 December) for its eleventh year in the UK.

Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign which highlights small business success and encourages us to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in our communities. It takes place each year on the first weekend in December.

Edinburgh’s Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, Councillor Jane Meagher, has been out visiting small businesses and enterprises around Leith and the Shore to mark the occasion and celebrate the area’s recent recognition as ‘the best neighbourhood in the UK and Ireland’ at the 2023 Urbanism Awards.

Clockwise Serviced Offices – Located in what was originally a bonded warehouse, Commercial Quay, the building has been converted to create open-plan office space to suit any business.

Shore Deli – Recently opened under new management, The Shore Deli serves breakfast rolls, sandwiches and salads with a wide variety of coffees and cakes.

Destined for Home – An independently run interior and gift studio which places emphasis on high quality, individuality and purpose.

The ‘great neighbourhood’ award is one of five given out each year by The Academy of Urbanism, a network of built environment experts from across Europe. They recognise Britain and Ireland’s best place, street, neighbourhood and town and are based on several factors, including commercial success.

Small Business Saturday is an opportunity to showcase the great mix of independent shops that make Leith, and the rest of the city, such a special place to live, work and visit.

Councillor Jane Meagher, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “It was a pleasure to visit some brilliant local businesses in Leith as Small Business Saturday kicks off. The small businesses in and around Leith and the Shore form a huge part of what makes the area so special, and the recent award is testament to this.

“Edinburgh is home to a number of fantastic small businesses that form the backbone of our high streets. They play a key role in our communities, creating vital job opportunities and contributing to the economy.

“As we continue to feel the effects of uncertain economic times, this year more than ever we need to make sure we support small enterprises and contribute everything we can to their success. I would encourage everyone to shop local, not only this Small Business Saturday but all year round.”

Support your local shops this Small Business Saturday

Small Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake urges everyone to support their local small businesses

  • Targeted government intervention is addressing gaps in accessing finance from traditional lenders to help them scale up and grow

Small Business Minister Kevin Hollinrake has urged everyone to go out and support their local small businesses this Small Business Saturday.

Small Business Saturday is an initiative which encourages consumers to shop locally and support small businesses in their communities and it falls on the first Saturday of December.

In a call to action the Minister said: “I urge everyone to join me in supporting our local small businesses this Small Business Saturday. The best support we can give them is to shop local this festive season.

“Every penny spent at your local small business is an investment in your community.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomed small businesses, charities and local communities to Downing Street for a Christmas Market Festive Showcase on Thursday 30th November ahead of Small Business Saturday, and Minister Hollinrake was able to meet with some of the businesses beforehand.

Engagement with Small Businesses is a government priority, and Minister Hollinrake was able to discuss the important topics of accessing finance as an SME, as well as the issue of late payments, which some of the businesses reported had improved since the Department of Business and Trade published the Prompt Payment and Cash Flow Review, signalling clear government intent to back small businesses in this issue.

Supporting small businesses to scale up and grow is a clear government priority. The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement had a clear focus on growth, creating a favourable business environment that keeps more money in consumer’s pockets and reduces costs for businesses, creating the right environment for businesses to start and scale up. The increase to the National Living Wage to £11.44 an hour, as well as cutting taxes for 29 million workers, increases consumer’ spending power, whilst businesses are supported by a £4.3 billion business rates package.  

The government backed British Business Bank is supporting £12.4 billion of finance to over 90,000 businesses across the UK, of which 86% are outside London. The Bank is delivering a £1.6 billion programme of Nations and Regions Investment Funds, to support growing businesses outside London and South East.

Funds covering the South West, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales have launched earlier this year, with more to follow. It has issued over 100,000 Start Up Loans since 2012 providing over £1 billion for entrepreneurs at the start of their growth journey, 40% of whom are women and 21% from an ethnic minority background.

UK Export Finance, the government’s export credit agency also provides government backed guarantees on financial products through banking partners. It was recently announced at their customer conference that it is introducing more flexible, fast-track financing for small businesses – making it easier than ever for UK firms to sell in international markets.

Scottish artisan chocolatiers spotlighted this Small Business Saturday 

Business Gateway is celebrating the stories of the small business community in Scotland, including Edinburgh-based Quirky Chocolate.  

The business creates and sells unique collections of artisan chocolate from a small workshop close to Arthur’s Seat. Founded in 2008 by designer, Sandra Colamartino, who was also the first captain of the Scottish women’s rugby team, the business combines her two favourite things: beautiful design and delicious chocolate.  

Sandra began working with a chocolatier to create personalised chocolate bars with unique packaging, which has all been created using plastic-free packaging. Quirky Chocolate is also Fairtrade Cocoa certified, ensuring that the farmers who produce the cocoa that goes into their products are paid a fair price.   

Sandra first connected with Business Gateway as she was launching the business, when her local adviser connected her with an accountant.  

Having built up an established customer base, Sandra went on to create hand-rolled milk chocolate brussels sprouts in 2014, which became Not on The High Street’s best-selling product for three years in a row. The product resulted in a £1m turnover for the business alone.   

Buoyed by these impressive sales, Sandra started to work on products that would sell all year long, and designed and produced the tartan collection, which includes a range of Scottish flavours such as cranachan and millionaire’s shortbread. 

Sandra Colamartino, owner, Quirky Chocolate, said: “Our chocolate brussels sprouts were so well received, and generated more sales than we ever could have imagined. We needed to come up with new and exciting products to ensure this steady stream of sales continued.”

Having largely sold to a consumer audience, Sandra and the team began to move into business-to-business (B2B) sales, with a growing portfolio of top hotels in Scotland now stocking Quirky Chocolate products.  

Sandra said: “It’s been healthy to have a balance of consumer, wholesale, and business-to-business. If you think of your business as a table, it makes sense that each leg symbolises a different avenue of potential income. If the table only has one leg, and something goes wrong, you’re completely out of the game.”  

“The biggest challenge, no matter what field you’re in, is the multitasking element. You must become an expert at everything, whether that be working out insurance policies, how to pay an invoice, or developing a website.

“People tend to use the word ‘resilience’ when talking about setting up a new business, and I totally understand why.” 

Since launching, Quirky Chocolate has grown to a team of 16, made up of chocolatiers, production staff, designers and tech gurus. The business has very recently become a living wage employer and plans to grow at a steady speed while taking their employees and freelance illustrators and artists on the journey with them.  

Sandra continued: “As the business has matured, I’ve realised that there is so much support on offer from Business Gateway, which isn’t limited to start-up support.

“We’ve recently had a referral from Business Gateway and are looking forward to a member of the Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) speaking to our team about where we can make improvements.” 

Hugh Lightbody, Chief Officer at Business Gateway, commented: “Small businesses are the backbone of Scotland’s economy. However, recent years have posed various challenges to the sector, which has contributed to Business Gateway receiving over 25,000 enquiries this year. It remains critical that we provide the necessary support.  

“We know that business confidence is low in light of recent global circumstances, so it is important we take opportunities such as Small Business Saturday to highlight businesses like Quirky Chocolate, which produces some really beautiful and uniquely Scottish products.                                                                 

“Our resources, workshops, webinars and network of local advisers at Business Gateway all play a vital role in guiding small business owners through every step of their journey, making sure they have the knowledge and resources needed to thrive.” 

To find out more about Business Gateway, visit: https://www.bgateway.com/.  

Business Secretary launches review to prevent small firms from being ripped off by larger companies

Comprehensive review into tackling late payments for small businesses announced by Business Secretary

  • Business Secretary Grant Shapps announces in-depth review into payment practices to prevent small firms from being ripped off by larger companies
  • aimed at ensuring small businesses across the UK receive the payments they deserve, with £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices
  • comes as the Small Business Saturday Campaign marks its 10th anniversary

Business Secretary Grant Shapps has today – Small Business Saturday – announced a comprehensive review into tackling late payments for small businesses, while urging large companies to pay their smaller suppliers promptly.

Small businesses routinely spend significant time and resources chasing late payments from businesses they supply which can lead to cash flow problems, putting their firms at risk and preventing them from growing. The majority of small businesses do not have large balance sheets and cannot accommodate long payment terms or delays to receiving payment within their cash flow cycle.

The Payment and Cash Flow review will scrutinise existing payment practices and the measures in place to make sure small firms are not ripped off by their larger clients – with over £23.4 billion currently owed in outstanding invoices to UK businesses.

The review will consider the progress made in specific sectors of the economy in combatting late payment and will also include an in-depth examination of current payment reporting regulations and the Prompt Payment Code.

In addition, the statutory review of the Small Business Commissioner will help to ensure that the UK has the right arrangements in place to best support small businesses.

Business Secretary Grant Shapps said: “The UK’s 5.5 million small businesses are an integral part not just of our economy, but of our communities too, and this government is firmly on their side.

“That many small firms are routinely paid late is intolerable and presents a real barrier to productivity, the creation of high-skilled jobs and ultimately economic growth.

“This review will allow us to build on the success we have had so far in curbing late payment, unshackling small businesses from this exploitative practice and creating a system that is fit for the future.

“While we crack on with this work, I also want to remind big businesses of their duty to ensure their smaller suppliers are paid promptly.”

The government is already demonstrating its own commitment to prompt payment through the Procurement Bill, which is currently being debated in Parliament. The legislation sets out the requirement for 30 day payment terms to apply in public sector supply chains which will help level the playing field for SMEs and encourage more businesses with smaller budgets to bid for public sector contracts

The announcement comes alongside the government’s support for Small Business Saturday – which celebrates small business successes and encourages consumers to support smaller firms in their area – with the Business Secretary out on a visit to his local high street in his Welwyn Hatfield constituency.

Also within the scope of the review is the role of technology-enabled accountancy platforms in tackling late payments and promoting a better understanding of prompt payment measures within the small business community.

The role of finance, particularly how major banks and innovative lenders can help small businesses manage their cashflow and identifying barriers to accessing finance will also be part of the review’s remit. The review will include a consultation on the payment reporting regulations, setting out specific proposals on renewal and improvement of these duties. 

The review of the Small Business Commissioner will consider both its role and effectiveness, drawing on the consultation on the Commissioner’s powers that was conducted in 2020.

The government is committed to supporting small businesses across the United Kingdom through a series of measures including the recently expanded Start Up Loans scheme which saw an additional 33,000 new loans made available to SMEs.

Small businesses have also benefited from the Energy Bill Relief Scheme which provides non-domestic customers with a discount on their gas and electricity bills in light of the rise in global energy prices.

As part of the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor announced a £13.6 billion package of support for business rate payers, including the £500 million Supporting Small Business scheme.

Spending more, buying less and buying British is key to reducing food waste, says industry expert

Two million turkeys, 74 million mince pies and five million Christmas puddings. Sounds like a feast fit for a small nation? Well that’s the estimated number of otherwise edible festive food items that ended up in landfill this Christmas in the UK – and that’s not even taking into account things like vegetables, cheeses and unwanted party food that found their way to the bin.

In fact, a UK survey in 2021 revealed that over 45 per cent of people admitted to buying too much food over Christmas* with cheese, biscuits and chocolate coming out as the most overbought products. But with government figures showing that the amount of household food waste collected by local authorities across the UK rose by 11% to 485 thousand tonnes**, food waste isn’t just a Yuletide problem.

It’s also not just down to us as consumers, as food industry expert Hannah Anderson, Managing Director of ethical online food retailer 44 Foods explains: “Many of us would have seen first hand the supermarket shelves this Christmas Eve, still piled high with turkeys, vegetables and other perishable items that sadly, would likely have ended up in landfill.

“It’s a particularly sobering thought when you consider that five million people in the UK are living in food poverty. 

“The major food retailers are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to reducing food waste and as we’ve seen with the likes of Morrisons and their decision to remove use by dates from its milk bottles, steps are being made in the right direction.

“More support for UK producers is crucial too. Behind each item of wasted food is the wasted time, money and effort of a producer and with so many across the farming industry struggling, they need our support more than ever.”

But there’s plenty that we as consumers can do too, Hannah, who has worked in the food buying industry for over 20 years says. “As a consumer, shopping more mindfully is one of the biggest ways to reduce food waste. 

“Part of that is spending more and buying less. With the cost of living on the rise, that might seem counterproductive, but spending slightly more on quality products and buying only what you need to buy can actually save you money in the long-run as you won’t be throwing as much of your hard earned cash straight into the bin at the end of every week.

“Swapping those big name retailers for smaller, local producers can make a huge difference. Supermarkets by their nature deal in bulk, meaning that you often have little choice but to overbuy, especially when it comes to things like vegetables or meat products. They also reel you in with the promise of cheaper prices by buying more than you really need.

“Buying your food straight from the farm can not only give you a better quality product but it also gives you more control over the amounts that you’re buying so the fridge won’t be full of stuff you’ll never get around to using.

“It also means that what you’re buying is as fresh as it possibly can be without first having been wrapped in plastic and sat in an industrial chiller for days.”

You won’t need to don your wellies or make a trip to the farm shop either, Hannah explains.

“Sites like 44 Foods give you access to producers across the UK – think of it like a nationwide farm shop that lets you pick and choose ethically homegrown produce which is then delivered to your door.

“We also don’t do next day delivery which means that everything you order is at it’s very best when it reaches you. We even do bundles which means that whether you’re cooking a Sunday roast or a weekday meal, we’ll pull together everything you need, in the right quantities, and all you need to do is the cooking.” 

So, when it comes to reducing food waste, it’s about shopping smaller, shopping smarter and focusing your food budget where it really matters.

To see the full 44 Foods range, visit www.44foods.com

Support local independents when lockdown lifts

A group bookings provider is urging the public to support their local bars and restaurants once lockdown restrictions are lifted.

The county is once again in lockdown, and pubs, restaurants and hotels are forced to shut their doors. Many see this as the third major blow to the hospitality sector across the UK.

This hardship to hospitality is tough to take for many, and Bradley Gough, CEO and Founder of Groubook, calls for more support for independent businesses working in the hospitality sector. 

Mr Gough welcomes the new government grants to help keep businesses afloat until spring whilst we are all in lockdown, but warns it is not enough. 

He says businesses are continuing to incur mounting debt and the £9,000 of support offered will quickly run out. It is not enough to cover the costs of many businesses and certainly will not underpin longer-term business viability for the sector.

Bradley is now calling for a clear plan on what happens next, especially for those sectors which have incurred massive losses throughout – but he is also calling for the British public to play their part and support the local businesses that need it so much. 

Bradley Gough, CEO of Groubook said: “With the uncertainty of Brexit and COVID-19, it’s been a tough year for the hospitality sector, and the future of the industry is less known. Nobody has had any guidance on when we can re-open.

“Unfortunately, many bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants will not survive the strict new regulations across the UK. 

“We don’t want to see the industry disappear and that’s what’s slowly happening. 

So, we call on the British public to spearhead the rescue mission and support their local bars, cafes and restaurants when lockdown restrictions are lifted.

“We get it – some people will be excited to be back out eating, drinking, and socialising, and some will think it’s all too soon and want to stay home. Both are OK and we need to be more aware and tolerant of each other. But whether you choose to stay at home, or go out, we can all do our bit to help rescue the hospitality sector.”

Here are eight ways customers can support local businesses in the current climate:

  1. Book a table

When safe to do and lockdown restrictions are lifted, you will be able to visit SOME of your favourite places again. Others will open days, weeks or months later when they are ready. And when you are ready and comfortable, book a table. When the restaurants see the bookings come in, it will give them the confidence to get back going again!

Don’t forget to visit midweek, not just at the weekends too.

  1. Order takeaway if preferred

This is also possible during lockdown for many local hospitality businesses, but rest assured most places will continue this even if they’re “open” again. 

So if you don’t want to attend in person, order the products to take away. It’s still supporting the business.

It’s worth checking the best way to deliver or collect, as many delivery apps take a commission from the business. 

  1. Cook at home

Quite a few local restaurants are offering DIY packs, ready meals and “finish at home” style packs. You just need to be prepared to do the final bit of effort, in heating up and presenting it.  

  1. Invest in vouchers

A lot of establishments in the hospitality sector have vouchers available to buy and they can be used in the future. 

Having the money come in from vouchers is great for business confidence, and it’s good for consumers to have something to look forward to.

Vouchers also make great gifts! 

  1. Don’t forget the high street

Even through lockdown, various local shops that sold food remained open, such as delicatessens. More will reopen and spring back to life when safe and allowed, so keep tabs on the local high street outlets as you can get great fresh produce from delis etc. saving you visiting the supermarket. 

It’s also worth mentioning that some traders make a living off doing pop-ups in places like pub car parks. So when safe to do so, keep an eye on your favourite traders via social media so you don’t miss out.

  1. Share on social media

Speaking of social media, something as simple as a quick post on social media reporting on a great visit or meal can lead to more bookings. As customers, we need to be cheerleaders for our favourite independents, as they need all the publicity they can get.

Sharing your positive experience means a lot to the independent businesses but also helps others find great sources to use in future. 

  1. Turn up to your bookings

If you book a table at a restaurant in the coming weeks and months, make sure you turn up. In previous lockdowns, many independent businesses were hit by a wave of no-shows since reopening, and these affect small restaurants more than you might think.

But we are human so if, for any reason, you’re no longer able to make a booking, simply contact the restaurant and let them know in advance.

  1. Normalise deposits 

Learning from previous lockdowns, independents have been forced to ask for deposits with their bookings, requiring customers to put down a small, refundable fee to reduce the risk of people not turning up.

If you’re looking to book a table at one of your favourite restaurants, don’t be put off if they ask for a deposit. It will come off your bill!

BT: Scots pledge to support small businesses this Christmas

Shoppers keen to back their local high streets as they face the most turbulent winter in decades

  • 64 per cent of Scots agree[1] they are making more effort to support small businesses due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic
  • 70 per cent of Scots fear their local shops won’t survive the pandemic
  • 71 per cent of Scots are increasingly worried about the impact on their community if they lose local shops
  • 50 per cent of Scots agree the pandemic has made them reluctant to visit shops, stressing the need for small businesses to have an online presence

More than three in five people surveyed in Scotland are keen to support small businesses this Christmas – as they worry their local shops could go bust, according to new research conducted by BT in the run up to the festive period.

The poll of over 2,000 UK consumers found that 64 per cent of Scots agree they are making a conscious effort to help small businesses more because of the severe impact that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on trading over the past year.

The plight of local shops appears to be weighing heavily on the public conscience, as nearly two thirds of those polled in Scotland fear their local high street won’t survive the pandemic.

The poll found that 71 per cent of Scots are increasingly worried about the impact on their community if they lose local shops, with 64 per cent agreeing that their community depends on local businesses. Coupled with the recent collapse of major retail chains, it’s clear the public are concerned about the future of their local high-street.

The affection the public holds for small businesses is strongly reflected in the survey results, with 62 per cent of respondents in Scotland saying that small businesses play a key role in supporting local people; 51 per cent recognising the importance of small businesses in sustaining the economy; and 52 per cent pledging that small businesses provide vital employment.

Fears of contracting Covid-19 appear to remain post the most recent lockdowns across the UK, with 50 per cent of people in Scotland stating the pandemic has made them reluctant to visit shops. This reinforces the need for small businesses to have a strong online presence to help them survive the disruption of the pandemic.

Alan Lees, Director of BT’s Enterprise business in Scotland, said: “Small businesses have undoubtedly been amongst the hardest hit by the pandemic, with national and local lockdowns severely impacting their ability to trade.

“It’s really heartening to see that communities across the Scotland are coming out in force to support their local high street this Christmas, as these firms rely heavily on the festive period to generate the lion’s share of their profits.

“The fact that consumers want to engage with small businesses, particularly online, but sometimes face barriers in doing so, means that it is absolutely vital for them to adapt by moving online or risk being left behind. That’s why we launched our Small Business Support Scheme – to boost the connectivity, cashflow and confidence of small businesses through faster broadband, digital payments and digital skills, amongst other forms of assistance.”

In addition, the survey has also revealed that small businesses are facing increasing competition from bigger online retailers who are able to offer lower prices and faster delivery. 

According to the survey, top reasons holding people back from supporting small businesses include; the price compared with other retailers – with 41 per cent of Scots citing it as a barrier; a limited product selection, with nearly a third of Scots saying it was a concern; while no website presence was cited as a key concern by 17 per cent of respondents in Scotland.

Other concerns include slow delivery, a lack of social media presence and data security issues.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1337006754421501952

BT’s Small Business Support Scheme  consists of a series of measures to help boost the connectivity, cashflow and confidence of small businesses and help them get poised for growth.

Helping small businesses to boost their digital skills is a central part of the scheme, with BT pledging to help one million small businesses to boost their digital skills over the next five years through BT’s Skills for Tomorrow programme.

Alongside this, a dedicated mentoring programme for small businesses via Digital Boost will launch early next year, giving small businesses free access to BT’s expertise in strategy, marketing, and sales. Next year will also see the launch of a new digital marketing hub from BT to help small businesses to better promote their business online.

Other forms of support on offer via the scheme and which are available now include:  a bursary scheme for start-ups; a new digital payments solution; and a wellbeing toolkit for small businesses.

Give the gift of a happy dance by shopping with East Lothian independents this Christmas

Shop smart, shop local – give the gift of a happy dance, by shopping with East Lothian independents this Christmas 

The gift of a happy dance. That’s what you will be giving the owners of Buck & Birch, Seilich and Yummikeys, if you shop with them this Christmas.

Three East Lothian businesses with three real-life stories; stories that took them from kitchen-table ideas to beloved Scottish names, all with the support of a local community. 

And what do they want this festive period? For you to keep it East Lothian. 

Stocked, sold and in many cases, created locally, each brand offers a touch of Scottish magic, intertwining a respect for their hometown with products that keep customers returning again and again. 

These labours of love not only supply the best of the best, but continue to support their East Lothian by connecting and collaborating with other businesses, hiring local talent and promoting seasonal produce. Buck & Birch. Seilich. Yummikeys. The only brands to be shopping if you want to give back to your highland home. 

So, what can Santa bring you from East Lothian this year… ?

Boozy bounty from Buck & Birch 

The ethos of Buck and Birch is to go back to the source, hand harvesting ingredients when they are at their best, just like the old days. The founders are driven by passion and inquisitiveness, constantly exploring the full potential of the enigmatic ingredients found along Scottish shores, and in the local woodlands and hedgerows.  

For those who want a luxurious taste of the wilds of Scotland, the Aelder Amarosa Gift Set (£25 for 2 x 200ml bottles wrapped up in a classic box) contains two delectably fruity liqueurs to liven up any cocktail.

Aelder Elixer Elderberry Liqueur and Amarosa Aromatic Rosehip Liqueur give the sweet and spicy edge to your Christmas day. 

For the gin connoisseur? The Botanist Gin Wild Cocktail Collection (£29). 

A collaboration with Botanist Gin, the Wild Gin Cocktail Collection offers a limited-edition range of three pre-bottled cocktails, just ready for the drinking. Inspired by their shared knowledge and passion for the place they call home, flavours in The Ramble, The Amigroni and The Plants & Quincidence will never fail to transport you back to your Scottish roots.  

Something sweet from Seilich  

Skin-saving botanists, Seilich grows all plants themselves in a meadow in Scotland, creating lotions, sprays and balms utilising flower waters from native produce. Harvested organically, at least 50% of each product comes from the Seilich meadow and the rest from other vegan, organic and natural sources. The first company to gain Wildlife Friendly certification in the UK, each item is nourishing and made to suit every skin care addict, ensuring there is something sweet-smelling for everyone on your list. 

Perfect for those dipping their toe into the natural beauty world, the Complete Cleansing Set (£23) offers everything needed to create the most luxurious cleansing routine. A Wild Carrot and Camomile Cleansing Lotion and Peppermint and Camomile Gel Cleanser are paired with a sumptuously soft Tabitha Eve Organic Bamboo Flannel, to leave your face glowing and rejuvenated. Use the zingy gel morning and night, followed by the soothing cleansing lotion and finish off with a hot cloth to ensure that your favourite part of wearing make-up, will be taking it off.  

Combining Wildlife Friendly floral waters with moisturisers and botanical extracts of oat and comfrey, the divine Face Mist Set (£28) not only smells incredible but offers three skin-friendly additions to your regime. Soothing, hydrating and refreshing, each face mist can be used morning or night to add a delicate sheen and boost your skin’s moisture levels. Containing Rose and Mallow Face Mist, to nourish, Mint and Yarrow to refresh and Wild Carrot and Camomile to calm, the hardest part will be choosing which one to spritz! 

Yuletide calm from Yummikeys 

Created following a bill for lost car keys, Yummikeys is taking on the world of single-use plastic, one family at a time. With over 90% of toys ending up in landfill, founder Elspeth Fawcett’s mission was to make a toy that was not only un-put-downable for baby, but also a treasured keepsake for parents; a family heirloom to be loved from generation to generation. Safe, recyclable, engravable and most importantly, FUN, the stainless-steel teethers have garnered awards and attention along the way.   

A set of three stainless-steel animal Yummikeys interlocked with bright silicone beads, these cooling accessories are perfect for the ‘obsessed with car keys’ stage, but without all the worry. Safe, hygienic and not the predecessor to a large motor bill if lost, these keys offer hours of fun and are perfect for newly emerging teeth. For mamas who want to cherish the memories of baby for a little bit longer, keys can be engraved with name and birthdate too. Dishwasher proof and recyclable – Christmas music to our ears. £24.50 (£34.50 engraved). 

Made with mum in mind, each Ultrasound Scan Necklace is delicately engraved with your personal ultrasound image; a cherished keepsake of the time when it was just you and them. Carefully designed, each elegant disc, which comes with one scan engraving as standard, is available in silver plated stainless steel or rose and yellow 18ct gold plate (all £39.50 each).

On the back, optional dates, names and number of weeks can be added (£10 for up to 20 characters) and each necklace has the option to add more discs (£30 per), meaning you can hold all your babies close to your heart.  

Get all wrapped up, shop local and have a very, merry East Lothian Christmas!

Tyl by Royal Bank calls on Scots to support local businesses this festive season

·        83% of Scots agree that they have a greater appreciation for the staff working in local businesses as a result of the pandemic

·        However, despite this stated support, less than one in five, (18%) expect to ‘support local’ and do most of their Christmas spending with local independent stores

·        Additionally, more than a third (37%) have cancelled plans to spend money eating or drinking at local, independent businesses since the outbreak of Covid-19

·        Gift giving takes on a deeper significance as more than a third (38%) report that they have sent gifts as a way of staying in touch with family and friends during Covid-19

Over four-fifths (83%*) of Scots have a greater appreciation for staff working in local businesses as a result of the pandemic.

The latest data from Tyl in partnership with YouGov revealed that with many UK small businesses forced to firstly shut up shop and then to adapt to new ways of working in response to Covid-19 restrictions, public appreciation for those working in local independent retailers, restaurants and other SMEs has soared.

However, despite the increased appreciation of small businesses on their doorstep, less than one in five (18%) report that they intend to spend most of their Christmas budget with local, independent businesses. Additionally, more than a third (37%) admit to having cancelled plans to spend money eating or drinking at local, independents because of Covid-19.

In response to social distancing measures, gift giving has taken on a deeper significance during the festive season with more than a third (38%) of survey respondents reporting that they had sent gifts to friends and family as a way of staying connected to their loved ones throughout the pandemic. 

Mike Elliff, CEO, Tyl said: “This research clearly demonstrates that now, more than ever, people across Scotland have an appreciation for those working in their local cafes, pubs and shops.

“The weeks and months in the run up to Christmas are traditionally filled with parties, meals out and last-minute shopping trips. Although this year’s festive season might look different, we’re calling on everybody who can support their local independent stores to make sure their purchase behaviour reflects their good intentions.

“Covid-19 has had a substantial impact on small businesses – many of whom have been forced to close or operate with reduced hours. Through contactless and telephony payments and the facilitation of eCommerce transactions, Tyl, along with the wider payment industry, has a clear role to play in helping the country’s high street and hospitality sector to recover and rebuild for the future.”

The survey examined predicted consumer spending behaviour in the run up to Christmas.

Unwrapping support for small businesses

As the festive season approaches, the data predicted where consumers will spend this Christmas, revealing that only 18% expect to buy the majority of their Christmas gifts from local independent stores.

With social distancing reducing capacity in shops, and pubs and restaurants no longer able to accept payments at the bar, Tyl offers customers the freedom to process transactions throughout the entire venue, reducing wait times and ultimately increasing revenue. Tyl also offers next day settlement, ensuring that money reaches the merchant the next business day.

Rise of eCommerce

As a result of the UK high street operating under lockdown restrictions,  eCommerce is anticipated to play a central role in gift-giving this Christmas, with more than a quarter (26%) intending to do most of their shopping with online only business and more than two fifths (44%) anticipating that at least 70% of their Christmas purchases will be made online.

Only 3% of respondents estimate that they will do all their Christmas shopping in traditional bricks and mortar retailers, indicating that local independent stores will have to adapt to online demands in order to maximise festive returns.

Support for all payment methods

Whilst the consumer and business trend towards contactless and card payments continues, Royal Bank continues to support its personal and business customers with cash requirements, as supporters of UK Finance’s Access to Cash Initiative. The bank has become the first in the UK to offer fee-free secure cash home delivery to vulnerable customers, as well as keeping over 95% of the branch network open throughout the pandemic, and backing ATM operator LINK’s 12-month pledge to maintain free-to-use ATMs.

Tyl is a new, innovative payments service designed in partnership with UK SMEs to make it easier for small business customers across the country to receive payments in-store, online and over the phone and manage cash flow during COVID-19 and beyond.

Tyl provides next-day settlement for users, ensuring money is in their bank account the next business day, which has been a crucial factor in assisting businesses with cash flow during the coronavirus pandemic.

As part of our commitment to help businesses and communities thrive, Tyl has partnered with Pennies, the UK’s leading charity working to protect and grow micro-donations. The partnership grants a proportion of profit to charities, meaning that Tyl customers can benefit their local communities by choosing us as your payment partner.

Join the shop local movement!

With physically distant shopping and home deliveries on the rise, hundreds of Capital-based businesses in Edinburgh are reinventing the way they trade during lockdown.

Local gyms are offering virtual keep-fit classes, independent bars and restaurants are delivering to our doors, and small businesses and social enterprises are ramping up their abilities to work remotely.

With more options becoming available for safe shopping – and helpful directories like Localburgh, the Edinburgh Lockdown Economy, Locally and Edinburgh Social Enterprise providing up to the minute information on those who are open for business – we’re calling on residents to support local high streets where they can.

Council Leader, Adam McVey, said: “Life during lockdown doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy or support our local high streets and there are now so many ways we can back the Edinburgh businesses we know and love. If you want your favourite places to still be there for you when the outbreak is over, please be there for them now.

“Where I live in Leith, there are dozens of incredible bakeries, bars, cafes and gift shops offering safe ways to collect products for those who are able to visit in person. For those of us at home, we don’t need to rely on multinational companies to deliver what we need. So please, if you’re lucky enough to be able to help, take a look at the diverse options on offer and stay loyal to local.”

Depute Leader, Cammy Day, said: “Edinburgh has one of the best local business communities in the world and this is the most challenging time these companies will ever go through.

“As a Council, we have been doing all we can to provide advice and business rates support during these difficult days. We’ve paid out £70m in coronavirus business support grants so far to around 5,400 businesses and our Business Gateway service is here with expert support and guidance.

“But we all need to work together to support each other and our communities right now. If you aren’t able to financially support a business, why not leave a positive review or drop your favourite places an encouraging email of support and solidarity.”

Garry Clark, the East of Scotland Development Officer for the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), said: “Shopping locally, online or otherwise, has been a firm feature of lockdown and is likely to remain with us for some time to come.

“Small local shops are ideally placed for the increasing number of people staying at home right now and there is huge potential for this to become part of our lives when the lockdown process eventually begins to unwind. Supporting local businesses has never been more important but it has never been easier either.”

Claire Pattullo, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Social Enterprise, said: “Social Enterprises rely on trade rather than grants or charitable donations to support their social benefits and they are being particularly hard hit at this time.

“Please make a conscious choice to support Edinburgh’s Social Enterprise sector and help protect the vital services they provide and that are even more in demand than ever.”

Edinburgh has a diverse Social Enterprise sector selling goods and services ranging from bespoke handmade furniture to recycled bikes, venue spaces and mental health first aid training.

All profits support their social benefits, such as homelessness; training and employment, and at the moment making sure vulnerable individuals have access to food and relief from the effects of isolation. When you buy from a member of Edinburgh Social Enterprise Network or where you see the Buy The Good Stuff logo, you are supporting social good.

Information on the support available to businesses in Edinburgh is available on the Council’s dedicated coronavirus webpages and from the Edinburgh Business Gateway.

Financial aid for residents and information on the help available to you if struggling financially is also available on the council’s website and through the Advice Shop.

Details of Edinburgh’s Social Enterprises can be found on the ESE website or you can contact them direct on info@edinburghsocialenterprise.co.uk.