The message is clear: shop local. It’s a great message, but it’s important to remember that shopping local is not just for Christmas.

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and Buckinghamshire is a shining example, boasting more small businesses than almost anywhere else in the country. These businesses create local jobs, support charities and community groups, add unique character to our high streets, and are often more environmentally friendly.

The festive and new year period is a good time to reflect that whilst price and convenience may entice us to shop online with the global brand names offering next-day delivery, there are hidden costs to doing so, including a negative impact on the environment and on our small and independent local businesses.

The Buckinghamshire business community feels the effects of global headwinds, national legislation, and local decision-making just as acutely as other regions’, but with such an abundance of small businesses there can be a real vulnerability to big fluctuations, especially for businesses that are family-owned or located in rural areas. It is particularly important that we all protect and support this community whenever we can.

Small Business Saturday offers year-round promotion

Small Business Saturday, which falls on the first Saturday of December each year, celebrates the vital role of small businesses. I understand that many businesses are closed on a Saturday and might not see how this campaign relates to them.

However, whether you're a marketing agency, web design company, law firm, cleaning service, virtual PA, accountants, or any other type of business, you can still promote your services on the Small Business Saturday website for free, all year round. You can also use the Small Business Finder tool to search for local businesses in your area.

Have you published your profile on the free Buckinghamshire Business Directory?

The same applies to the Buckinghamshire Business First website. We're here all year round to champion local businesses of all shapes and sizes. If you need a business or supplier, visit our online business directory.

Businesses can list themselves on the directory for free – log in to your profile on bbf.uk.com or email [email protected] to learn more.

Whenever you read this, remember that every day is a great day to shop local and support small businesses.

By Philippa Batting, CEO, Buckinghamshire Business First