Where will you shop small this Saturday?

Northern Ireland consumers have been urged to support a new programme – backed by Executive Ministers – to raise the profile of small businesses in the run-up to Christmas
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Dec 2013, 07:02 BST
IN THE MAIN. Some of the hundreds of people who turned out for the switch on make their way along Main St on Thursday night.INBM48-13 123SC.IN THE MAIN. Some of the hundreds of people who turned out for the switch on make their way along Main St on Thursday night.INBM48-13 123SC.
IN THE MAIN. Some of the hundreds of people who turned out for the switch on make their way along Main St on Thursday night.INBM48-13 123SC.

This year – for the first time – “Small Business Saturday” is happening across the UK – in York, Glasgow, Belfast, Manchester, Nottingham, Cardiff, Plymouth, London and BALLYMONEY – so think big, shop small on Saturday 7th December.

Throwing his weight behind the initiative, Council Development Chair, Bill Kennedy, commented: “This is a chance to put the spotlight on small family businesses, so, after testing the water with the Chamber of Commerce, we have decided to get behind the initiative.

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“It’s a single day dedicated to shopping at locally-owned family businesses.

“From the butcher, baker to dressmaker, small business matters and we want to celebrate the contribution small business makes to the economy.

“This a great chance for small businesses to promote themselves and generate trade.

“I urge customers to make a special effort to shop local – it makes a difference and the money spent will stay in your local community,” the Alderman concluded.

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Lending the support of the business community to the initiative, Chamber President Winnifred Mellet said: “We recognise the opportunity being offered to drive customers and increase awareness of the town centre shopping experience this Christmas season and businesses are collaborating to promote the day.Small businesses of all kinds are taking part. We have a charming mix of unique family businesses and would love to welcome you to Ballymoney, with some festive fun on Saturday 7th December.

“We are brimming with gift ideas for you and all the family – and some shops will be offering Saturday Specials for customers.”

The Chamber has organised a couple of fun competitions, so why not join in the fun for a chance to win sweet hampers?

There will also be a search for the best Christmas Jumper – email your picture to [email protected] and we’ll choose the most quirky.

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Can you name the longest established family business in town? Check out the shops for clues then email your answer to [email protected] and you could be a winner!

The town’s Christmas promotions also include – Shop Local for a chance to win £200 of vouchers every week, while John Laverty Optometrists are inviting children to try to crack the cracker code to be in with a chance of winning £50 cash.

The resident DJ at the Diamondwill be providing some festive music from the King of Rock & Roll.

Watch out for Santa as he goes walkabout. Come along and browse the market stalls at Castlecroft Square stocked with arts, crafts, artisan food, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For information on our events and competitions, www.visitballymoney.com/christmas.aspx

Related topics:Chamber of CommerceManchesterGlasgowYorkNorthern Ireland