Do your bit for small businesses when many get back up and running on Super Saturday
SUPER Saturday tomorrow will see pubs, hairdressers and many other concerns reopen their doors.
But they need to get back on track fast — one in three small businesses fears the damage done to them by Covid-19 may be terminal.
That’s why we support Jump Back July, helping those in need, from school leavers to small and medium-sized businesses.
Fishmonger Kath Clarke believes Sun readers can help businesses to keep their heads above water.
Kath set up her business, fishwithatwist.co.uk, in 1018 in Pateley Bridge, North Yorks, and said: “It is hard being a small business but I hope people will continue to enjoy shopping in the high street and supporting local businesses.
“Panic-buying, shelves stripped bare and no delivery slots in big supermarkets have made people turn back to friendly, local stores. In our community, we’ve worked 80-hour weeks to deliver to the elderly and vulnerable and ensure nobody goes hungry.”
Tips for firms
TO kick off Jump Back July, we have tips for firms employing fewer than 250 people, from Mike Cherry, of the Federation Of Small Businesses and Andrew Goodacre, of the British Independent Retailers Association.
- Keep busy: If still not open or if business is quiet, train staff and work on your marketing.
- Take care of staff: They may be nervy about returning to work.
- Talk to customers: By social media, phone, email and in person if possible.
- See what people want now: It may have changed, so adapt.
- Safety first: Handwashing, deep-cleansing of the premises and social-distancing are vital to reassure customers.
- If you need help, ask: Support is available from other small firms, banks and the Government.
- Collaborate: Talking to other small firms always helps. There is a wealth of experience out there.
Hail the heroes
SMALL firms who have gone the extra mile during lockdown can win £1,000 and a top-of-the- range phone to help them bounce back.
In the Everyday Heroes contest from O2 Business, YOU can nominate those you feel deserve the extra boost.
Allie Lawson, of O2 Business, said: “This has been a particularly tough time for small businesses so we want to recognise and reward their efforts by helping out some Everyday Heroes.
“We’re calling on the public to nominate local businesses who are most deserving, and celebrate their perseverance in serving their communities.”
Nominate a business at news.o2.co.uk/everydayheroes by midnight on July 5.
Join gleam team
WINDOW-cleaning is one trade that has boomed in lockdown – as we all got fed up peering out through dirty panes.
Now a thriving Surrey-based firm, mrreach.co.uk, needs new staff and trainees. Owner Richard Morris, 36, from Sutton, said: “During lockdown we have been inundated with work.
“Our staff have also cleaned vulnerable customers’ windows for free, we’ve shopped for those we know can’t get out, and even run a kids’ rainbow window art contest. We are part of the community and want to give back.”
The firm is hiring area managers as well as trainee cleaners. See mrreach.co.uk/about/vacancies. To take on a franchise, visit mrreach.co.uk/join-the-team/.
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Big up small traders
SMALL businesses have proved vital during the pandemic says Michelle Ovens, founder of smallbusinessbritain.uk, and now she is calling on Sun readers to shop savvily to support them. Here are her tips on how you can.
- Think small – the best way to support small businesses is to buy from them. Your money will be supporting hard-working people and the future of your community. Find local firms at smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/small-business-finder.
- Leave an online review – these help to boost small businesses up the search engine rankings and build their followings. Not only will it raise awareness and reach new customers, it also brightens the day for the owners and their employees.
- Share on social – tell your friends if you have had a good experience, whether it’s a local plumber or a hair salon that is opening its waiting list.
- Treat yourself – we have missed out on the little things we used to enjoy while firms are shut. Support them when they reopen by treating yourself to something special.
- Send love with small businesses. Whether it’s sending flowers, birthday cake or just a personalised card, small firms can do this with a thoughtful, personal touch.
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