Local businesses showcased on Small Business Saturday tour

Solihull Chambers of Commerce recently showed the team from Small Business Saturday around Solihull to meet some of the small independent businesses.

The tour, which aims to celebrate small business success and encourage local shopping, was given a firsthand look at the diverse range of businesses that make Solihull special.

Kim Hulse, of K Hulse Consulting, a small business champion and member of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, planned the day and introduced them to an array of excellent Solihull independents.

Kim said: “As part of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Committee, I’m always keen to fly the flag for small businesses, so I jumped at the opportunity to showcase just a few of the small businesses Solihull has to offer.

Over coffee in Brew Twenty Three, Jayne Hume, who leads the Small Business Academy within the Chamber, talked about the support available from the Chamber to start ups and small business members; and talked about the way cohorts on the Academy support each other. Paula, one of the Small Business Academy participants also had the opportunity to showcase her business. 

The tour continued with visits to several independent retailers and hospitality businesses, including Livs, Le Scarpe, Fall Menswear, and Jamaya.

Tony Elvin from Touchwood emphasized the importance of independent businesses, stating: “Small independent businesses add additional personality and authenticity to Solihull and Touchwood are proud to host several independent businesses”. 

Now celebrating its twelfth year, Small Business Saturday is the UK's most successful small business campaign. Over the time the campaign has run in the UK it has engaged millions each year, with spend on the day topping over £1 billion.

Taking place on 7 December this year, Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, not-for-profit campaign. Small Business Saturday aims to support and celebrate small businesses, with an impact that lasts all year round.

To learn more about Small Business Saturday and how you can get involved, please visit the website.

Pictured (L-R): Kim Hulse (K Hulse Consulting), Laura (Brew Twenty Three), Jayne Hume (Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce), Paula Spiga (Glam & Glow), Gemma Johnson (Small Business Saturday), Katie (Brew Twenty Three)