Shoppers are being encouraged to spend locally this Christmas to support the independent business owners who help keep Worcester’s high streets alive.
Worcester BID says many entrepreneurs are balancing multiple roles and working 12-hour days while facing rising costs, making community support more important than ever.
Independent firms make up more than 68 per cent of the city’s businesses.
Their daily efforts are helping to shape the city’s character, create jobs and support the wider community.
Samantha McCarthy, chief executive of Worcester BID, said: “Sometimes I think we forget the people behind the businesses.
“Independent business owners are not simply employers.
“They are workers themselves, often working incredibly long hours and taking on responsibilities that would be spread across entire departments in larger organisations.
“They take the risks, make the investment, create the opportunities and provide employment for others.
“Without their commitment, determination and willingness to put so much of themselves into their businesses, many of those employment opportunities simply wouldn’t exist.
“They create local jobs, support other local businesses, invest in their communities and give Worcester the individuality that makes it different.”
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Shopping with independent retailers not only supports business owners but also their employees, families and the wider community and their contribution goes far beyond the high street.
Independent businesses attract visitors, support local supply chains and help create vibrant places to shop, eat and spend time.
Sarah Johnson, owner of Simply Beautiful in Worcester city centre, said: “We love what we do, but running a business takes an enormous amount of hard work.
“We are proud to employ local people, but we are on the front lines working hard every single day.
“With taxes going up, it’s getting tougher and tougher, and as working people ourselves, it would just be nice for this to be recognised.”
Each purchase helps keep the heart of Worcester beating.
As the festive season approaches, residents are being urged to celebrate and support the individuals keeping the city’s high streets alive.
