Old Town’s independent traders are joining forces for Small Business Saturday this weekend, highlighting the vital role small companies play in Swindon’s economy and urging residents to make a conscious effort to spend locally during the Christmas period.
Small businesses make up 99 per cent of all UK firms and provide more than half of private sector employment. Unlike large online retailers, a significant portion of every pound spent with an independent stays in the local economy, recirculating through wages, supply chains and community investment.
This year, Old Town businesses have prepared a range of special offers and seasonal products to entice residents off the sofa and back into their retail areas. From Christmas cakes to artisan coffee, vinyl records, watches, homeware, and unique gifts, traders are showcasing the breadth and quality available on their doorstep.
At Light Bulb Coffee, visitors can grab a batch brew of El Indio Colombian alongside a Christmas doughnut from Pippin’s, selected by Tom Smith. Dotty’s Café is offering a six-item breakfast for £9, chosen by Maisie Smith. The Flower Pot’s Charlotte Phipps has picked out a hand-tied bouquet at £40, while Firestorm Games’ Glyn Pasco has highlighted a Gundam Master Grade Full Armour Kit at £90 for hobby fans. Jamie at the Tuppenny showcases a Grasshopper cocktail for £9, and Mia encourages people to try out Clubtan were you you can currently get a free £10 voucher.
Other retailers are showcasing distinct Old Town finds. Prospect Hospice’s Books and Media shop has a Rick Astley ‘Hold Me In Your Arms’ vinyl for £7, selected by Lindsay Workman. At Expressions, Shirley Murphy has chosen a festive reindeer ornament for £16.99. Deacons’ James MacDonald is highlighting the Tudor Pro Black Bay at £3,730 and the newly released Tudor Luna at £2,210.
Food and drink traders are also joining the celebrations. The Pantry’s Sarah Howell is offering rum-filled Christmas cake portions at £3.25. Magnum Wines’ Brian Saunders is inviting customers to try Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port, priced at £15.99. The Kings’ Gemma Parker and Charlie Howell have selected a Briocavila red wine at £5.50 for a medium glass.
From affordable retro toys at Old Town Hardware, where Luke Brown is showcasing binoculars at £5.99 and Tiddlywinks at £7.99, through to artisan gifts such as Oink Gallery’s £100 “Be Kind Rewind” print chosen by Mark Pepperall, the range reflects the diversity of Old Town’s independent economy.
Commenting on Small Business Saturday, Kris Talikowski said:
“People say they love their local shops, but Old Town only survives if people actually show up.
Every pound spent with an independent keeps money circulating in Swindon, supports local jobs, and helps preserve the character of the place. If we want vibrant streets, buzzing cafés and thriving shops, it starts with the choices people make this weekend.”
Small Business Saturday encourages residents to take at least one action: visit their local high street, step inside a business they have not tried before, and commit to buying something from an independent trader.
With unique gifts, special offers and personal service on every corner, Old Town’s traders hope this weekend will remind people why supporting small businesses is not only enjoyable, but essential for Swindon’s future.
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