FSB Wales urges shoppers to support high streets this Christmas
FSB Wales urges shoppers to support high streets this Christmas
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The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Wales has issued a strong call for consumers across the country to shop locally this Christmas, highlighting the crucial role that small firms and high streets play in the Welsh economy.
With the festive trading period now underway, the organisation is urging people to prioritise independent retailers, cafés, pubs and local suppliers when buying gifts, food and seasonal essentials.
The message comes at a critical time for Welsh small businesses, many of which depend heavily on Christmas sales to sustain their operations into the new year.
Wales’ retail sector faced a challenging November as footfall declined by 0.4% year-on-year, according to the latest BRC–Sensormatic figures.
The fall places Wales broadly in line with the rest of the UK, where consumer confidence weakened ahead of the Autumn Budget and severe weather disrupted shopping patterns across the month.
FSB Wales, which represents thousands of firms across the country, says each pound spent locally delivers far greater economic value than money spent with national chains or online-only retailers.
John Hurst, Chair of FSB Wales, said: “This Christmas more than ever, our small businesses need the people of Wales to get behind them.
“When you buy from a local shop, market stall or independent online business, you’re not just buying a gift, you’re helping a neighbour pay their staff, keep their lights on and contribute to the community as a whole.
“Shopping local really does keep the pound local and makes a tangible difference to lives and livelihoods.”
Joshua Miles, Head of FSB Wales, said: “Small firms are the very heartbeat of our towns and high streets.
“The festive season can make or break a year for many of them. By choosing to spend even a portion of your Christmas budget with Welsh small local businesses, you’re directly helping to protect jobs, sustain vital services and keep our communities vibrant for the future.”
To help raise awareness, FSB Wales is encouraging shoppers to use the hashtag #ShopLocalCymru on social media to share their support for independent Welsh businesses throughout December.
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