Founders of Sheer Edge, the award-winning corporate events agency based in Northamptonshire, were elated to hear that they had been invited to attend a special reception at the House of Lords and 11 Downing Street on the 2nd of December as part of this year’s Small Business Saturday UK celebrations. The invitation followed Sheer Edge’s selection as one of the prestigious SmallBiz100, a national campaign recognising 100 of the UK’s most inspiring small businesses each year.
The SmallBiz100 is a line-up of 100 brilliant small businesses from all over the country, which are being highlighted as part of the Small Business Saturday UK campaign.
This comes as new joint research by Small Business Saturday UK and American Express shows that small businesses are the nation’s favourites. Over half of Brits (58%) say they have a favourite small business1 and 95% of people believe small businesses add value to local areas.
The event at the House of Lords kicks off a week of celebrations ahead of Small Business Saturday, as it marks the contribution of the nation’s 5.6 million small businesses to communities, the local economy and the whole of the UK.
The reception, hosted during a week that champions the vital contribution of small businesses to the UK economy, brought together entrepreneurs, innovators and creatives from across the country. Attendees were welcomed into two of the UK’s most historic and significant buildings, marking a memorable moment for Sheer Edge’s founders and a highlight in the company’s nearly ten-year journey.
Now in its 13th year, Small Business Saturday UK continues to spotlight the achievements, resilience and impact of small businesses. This year’s celebration culminates on Saturday 6th December, encouraging communities nationwide to support small, independent enterprises.
Small business owners from across the UK and MPs from across the political spectrum came together at the reception with the Small Business Minister, Blair McDougall MP, speaking at the event, and many other MPs meeting entrepreneurs in their constituencies.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK, said:
“Small businesses like Sheer Edge create incredible value in their communities and as the research shows are among the nation’s favourites. We are so glad to have celebrated them at the House of Lords this week.
“It is so important we get behind our small businesses – public support for entrepreneurs can make all the difference. This Small Business Saturday, we encourage everyone to support their favourite independents, on the day and beyond.”
A grassroots, not-for-profit campaign, Small Business Saturday was originally founded by American Express in the U.S. in 2010. American Express remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK, as part of its ongoing support of the UK high street and commitment to encouraging consumers to shop small.
On Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, online, in offices and in stores; from independent shops and restaurants to small service and b2b businesses like accountants and plumbers.
Many small businesses celebrate the day by hosting events, offering promotions, and collaborating with other small businesses.
Blair McDougall, Minister for Small Business, said:
“Small businesses are key to our growth mission – creating jobs, strengthening our communities – which is why I am so pleased to be celebrating their incredible contribution this Small Business Saturday.
“This Government is backing SMEs with our landmark Plan for Small Business, and I urge the public to do the same by visiting their favourite local shops this weekend.”
Small Business Saturday is the UK’s most successful business campaign, engaging millions around the country on the value of small businesses and seeing billions of pounds spent with small firms over the decade it has been running.
Dan Edelman, General Manager, UK Merchant Services, American Express, said:
“Behind every small business is a person — a dreamer, a doer, and someone devoted to serving their community. This research shows how much the public values these individuals and Amex is proud to back them as principal supporter of Small Business Saturday.”vely
During the event, the Sheer Edge team had the opportunity to connect with fellow business owners, Northamptonshire representatives and supporters of the small business community. The occasion also included the chance to meet local MPs Rosie Wrighting, Lee Barron and Sarah Bool, as well as enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Parliament with the support of long-time advocate Simon Cox.
Co-founder Jo Ferreday expressed her gratitude and pride in Sheer Edge’s recognition and the platform it provides for small business advocacy:
“Being invited to the House of Lords and 11 Downing Street as part of the SmallBiz100 is something I’ll never forget. To stand alongside so many passionate, talented business owners was incredibly inspiring. Small businesses really are the backbone of our economy and it’s vital that they continue to receive the support, visibility and opportunities they deserve to grow. As Sheer Edge approaches its tenth year, moments like this remind us why we do what we do.”
She added her thanks to the dedicated Sheer Edge team who continue to deliver exceptional client support through one of the busiest times of the year.
Sheer Edge will continue its commitment to championing and supporting businesses and events across the UK and encourages everyone to get behind Small Business Saturday this weekend by choosing to shop local, book local and celebrate the entrepreneurs shaping their communities.
