Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey SNP MP Drew Hendry urges everyone to shop local over festive season

Drew Hendry is urging people in the Highlands to support local businesses this festive season, by pledging to buy at least 50% of his Christmas shopping from independent retailers.

Mr Hendry has, himself, committed to buying over 50% of his gifts this festive season from local suppliers.

The MP's drive to get people to pledge their support comes ahead of Small Business Saturday, on December 5, which is now in its eighth year in the UK.

Small Business Saturday is a campaign which highlights small businesses and encourages consumers to shop local and support small businesses in their communities.

Last year saw an estimated £800 million spent in small businesses across the UK, with a record 17.6 million people choosing to shop local on the day. Mr Hendry is hoping to encourage even more people to turn out and support local this year.

“This has been an unprecedented year, and the effects of the pandemic have undoubtedly hit small businesses hard. That’s why I’m pledging to buy over 50% of my Christmas shopping from local businesses this year, and I want to encourage my constituents to do the same.

“Across the Highlands, over 90 per cent of registered businesses are small businesses, and whilst online purchases from large retailers have now become a way of life, I am asking people to consider a couple of simple strategies to help out locally.

"Could you find a Highland supplier to deliver to you, could you support a local venue, hotel or restaurant and buy a voucher, or could you give the gift of giving by donating to a local charity or group, in their name.

“Small businesses provide a service and value that often cannot be matched by larger retailers, and I look forward to shopping with them this year, as well as sharing some of mine and my office’s favourite small businesses from across the constituency on my social media channels.

“I know times are tough for everyone, so even if you could give it a thought when you do your Christmas shopping, I know local businesses would be so very appreciative.“

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