Sunderland shoppers praise independent traders following ‘Small Business Saturday’

Sunderland shoppers are fully behind the city’s independent traders and believe they bring “huge value” to the area.

As a follow up to last weekend’s Small Business Saturday (December 3), which celebrates small businesses and highlights their importance to the local economy, Sunderland BID carried out a vox pop to see how people viewed the city’s independents.

And everyone asked was “overwhelmingly supportive” of what small businesses offer, along with being quick to name their favourites. Cafes like Sweet Petite and Grinder Coffee Co were singled out, as was furniture store, Harrison and Brown and gift shop, Crystal Moon.

Sunderland local Chloe Challis praised Frances Marshall hairdressers, saying: “I always feel welcome and comfortable when I go because my hair takes hours to cut but it’s always worth it in the end as the results are great.”

Newcomer Diego’s in Sunniside was praised by another local, Ross Macintyre, for its “quirky vibe” while Joe Soan raved about Naga Noodles: “The food is unbelievable and the staff are always really nice.”

Sam’s Bar also received a thumbs-up from Sarah Busby, who said “the staff are always lovely and the cocktails are really good.”

Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland BID, declared that she was “delighted” to see that people were so positive about the “strong” independent business scene in the city.

She commented: “Small Business Saturday allows us to turn the spotlight on all of the businesses that help create a strong retail and leisure sector in Sunderland. They bring a unique offering to the city and it’s fantastic to see that people recognise that.

“It’s important however that we give them support not just at Christmas but throughout the year as they play an important role in contributing to the local economy.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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