Last weeks Small Business Saturday, (6th December), is a fantastic opportunity to champion the hard work of local businesses in our local towns. But as a lifelong resident, County Councillor and small business owner myself, I know first-hand that one day of recognition simply isn’t enough. Our local businesses need consistent support every week of the year to survive in these challenging times.
From Zamanis restaurant in Ashby, a family business that has been a cornerstone of the community for over 30 years, to The Coal Bunker in Coalville, where owner Nicky Worthington recently told me how rising costs are making it harder than ever to stay afloat, our small businesses are the beating heart of our towns. Coalville’s longest independent trader, Mark James of The Fruit Basket, continues to provide for the community after decades of service, while new ventures like Shooterz, which opened its doors just last week, bring fresh life to the high street.
But whether they’ve been trading for 30 years or 30 days, they all tell me the same thing: they’re struggling. Rising costs, reduced financial relief, and the recent increase in Employers’ National Insurance contributions have added enormous pressure. Businesses are being forced to make impossible decisions about raising prices, cutting staff, or even closing their doors.
Recent changes introduced by Rachel Reeves’ Autumn Budget have only deepened these concerns. The end of the 75% discount on retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) business rates in March 2025, replaced with a much smaller 40% relief is a blow to businesses already operating on thin margins. Labour simply doesn’t understand small business. None of their front bench has ever run one, and with a Chancellor who has a questionable CV, it’s clear they lack the experience to make policies that work for our communities. Their policies demonstrate a lack of understanding of the pressures faced by small business owners, who are already battling inflation, post-pandemic recovery, and shifting consumer habits. While Labour’s rhetoric often speaks of "helping working people," their actions tell a different story, one of increased taxes, reduced relief, and mounting red tape. It’s vital that the new Government wake up to the realities on the ground and deliver sustainable, meaningful support to safeguard the future of our small businesses.
As someone who has always supported local businesses, I urge everyone in North West Leicestershire to shop local whenever they can, not just on Small Business Saturday but all year round. These businesses aren’t just places to shop or dine; they are our friends, our neighbours, and the foundation of our towns. Let’s stand together to ensure they have the support they need to thrive and remain the beating heart of our community.
