As a city inundated with small shops, businesses and restaurants, Brighton’s independent scene is undoubtedly a thriving one. In a bid to shine an even greater spotlight on some of these amazing spots throughout the city, the Small Business Saturday Bus Tour is heading to Brighton this weekend!
An impressive selection of Brighton’s eclectic mix of small businesses have been chosen to showcase themselves as part of the tour, taking place in the run up to Small Business Saturday on 1st December. VisitBrighton, The Booklover Store and Sugardough are amongst a list of fourteen other businesses who will be setting up shop outside the bus this Saturday, as well as being profiled across the campaign’s social media channels.
A few of these select businesses, alongside other local business-people and entrepreneurs, will also be able to share their stories to the campaign’s followers as part of the ‘Blue Sofa Interview’ series. These interviews taking place on board the bus will be aired to a Facebook live audience, not only generating publicity for the small businesses, but also for the city itself.
The Mayor of Brighton, Dee Simpson, and other Brighton and Hove Council representatives will all be present on the day to welcome visitors aboard. Councillor Nancy Platts, who is the lead member for Economic Development and Social Value, has commented on the the bus coming to town:
“I’m delighted to be welcoming the Small Business Saturday bus to the city. Brighton & Hove is home to an abundance of start-ups and independent retailers so the tour is especially relevant for a large number of people here and this is a great opportunity to highlight the support that’s out there for them.
“Small Business Saturday is more than just one shopping day, it’s a reminder to us all to support the local businesses that contribute hugely to our sense of community and the distinctive personality the city is well-known for”.
With 6 successful years already under it’s belt, the Small Business Saturday Bus is undertaking a 3000 mile trip, visiting cities across the country. Stopping at an impressive 30 locations over the course of 25 days, the campaign is working hard to promote the country’s 5.7 million small businesses.
Michelle Ovens MBE, Director of Small Business Saturday, has commented on what her campaign set out to achieve:
“From Birkenhead to Belfast, Glasgow to Carmarthen, The Small Business Saturday bus will travel the country to celebrate the UK’s fantastic growing businesses and shine a spotlight on their success.
“This tour is a way for us to give back to businesses at the heart of communities – celebrating them, championing them and providing a listening ear and a chance for mentoring.”
Initially begun by American Express, the Small Business Saturday campaign is completely not for profit and is committed to encouraging people to shop small and support their local businesses. The bus will be on Ship St. Brighton, on 22nd November, from 10am – 2pm. For more information head over to their website.