The visit, hosted in partnership with Laura Kyrke-Smith, MP for Aylesbury, and Buckinghamshire Business First, took place at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre following the launch of the Buckinghamshire Business Awards 2025.

During the visit, the Minister met with local entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing small enterprises in today’s economic climate. Topics included access to finance, skills development, digital transformation, and regulatory reform - key areas that will shape the government’s forthcoming strategy to support small businesses.

Both the Minister and Laura Kyrke-Smith emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving small business ecosystem.

Gareth Thomas MP commented: “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and enriching local communities. This is the first comprehensive small business strategy in over a decade, and it’s crucial that it delivers real impact. Small businesses create 60% of UK jobs, and a 1% increase in SME productivity could generate £100 billion for the UK - so getting this right is vital for the UKs growth, innovation, and prosperity.”

Laura Kyrke-Smith MP said: “It was fantastic to have the Minister meet and listen to local business owners at the Waterside Theatre. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy in Aylesbury and the villages, and they are an essential part of the Government’s mission for economic growth. I’m so grateful to all who attended and fed in their views directly to the Minister. Their ideas and feedback will help shape the work this Government is doing to deliver the conditions in which our businesses can thrive and drive growth here in Aylesbury constituency and beyond.”

Business leaders welcomed the opportunity to share their insights and called for continued collaboration between the government and the private sector to boost growth and resilience.

Philippa Batting, CEO of Buckinghamshire Business First, said: “A thriving small business sector is essential for economic growth, and we’re pleased to contribute to shaping a strategy that truly supports entrepreneurs. Economic strength doesn't only come from the boardrooms of corporates, it also comes from the creativity, resilience, and hard work of small business owners across Buckinghamshire and the country.”

Buckinghamshire Business First is the local Growth Hub supporting all businesses in the county and any business in Buckinghamshire can access free business support by calling 01494 927130, emailing [email protected], or booking a chat with a member of the team.

Image Caption: Gareth Thomas MP, Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports, and Laura Kyrke-Smith MP meet with Buckinghamshire Business Leaders in Aylesbury.