Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, celebrated Small Business Saturday by visiting small businesses across the constituency to encourage shoppers to shop locally in the run up to Christmas.
Visiting the companies, Gavin heard first-hand how government support kept businesses going during the pandemic where companies could take advantage of the furlough scheme and bounce-back loans.
The non-political event, Small Business Saturday, helps to celebrate and support small businesses across their communities. The day itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses.
Gavin got to visit Farmhouse Butchers in Codsall and Beautiful (The Dressing Room) in Cheslyn Hay to discuss the challenges of 2020.
During the pandemic, 4,600 people have been supported by the furlough scheme in South Staffordshire, with £15 million worth of Coronavirus Business Interruption Loans and 1,578 bounce back loans for businesses across the constituency as well.
Speaking of the day, Gavin said: “It has been a really tough time for small businesses across South Staffordshire and that’s why this day is so important. However, it has been so vital that small businesses across the constituency have been supported to ensure they can continue to operate, pay the wages of their staff and to see a much more prosperous 2021. I know that this year has been tough, but as many of us can continue to support small businesses all year round which is imperative to keep our high streets thriving”.