Gedling MP Vernon Coaker has championed the borough’s high street traders as they celebrated Small Business Saturday.
The annual event promotes shops, restaurants and businesses in a bid to ensure they thrive, not just at Christmas time, but all year round.
The Gedling MP backed the initiative by spending the day visiting businesses on Mapperley Top.
Mr Coaker said:Â “Gedling has so many great small businesses and they are all contributing to our local economy. I believe, that here in Gedling, our high streets are often the heartbeat of our communities. I want to thank all small businesses in Gedling for the vital contribution they make to the local economy, for what they add to our local communities and for boosting diversity on our high streets.
“In the run-up to Christmas, it would be great if local people were able to support their local high street when they can, more local people, shopping local, would be great for Gedling and our communities.”
One of the businesses Mr Coaker visited was Deli-lcious on Mapperley Top which has now been in operation for 14 years.
The owner Louise said Small Business Saturday highlighted how important local businesses are to the community.
She said: “It has been challenging at times and very hard work but we are a business that has grown and we are proud of the high quality products and services we offer.
“We have always received great support from local people. We are not just a business, we are a hub within our community and our customers are our friends.
“Small business Saturday is important to businesses like ours, as it highlights how invaluable it is for the local economy when local people, shop local.”
Mr Coaker said he hopes to visit as many businesses as possible across the whole of Gedling.
