SMEs prepare for annual Small Business Saturday

Lloyds Bank will be demonstrating its support for small enterprise as the Small Business Saturday bus tour visits Plymouth as part of its campaign to support, inspire and promote small businesses.

Small Business Saturday, which is now in its second year, is designed to promote small business success and encourage people to shop locally – whether it’s a family business, local shop, online business, wholesaler or small manufacturer.

Small businesses will be gearing up for the day itself, which takes place on December 6th, the first shopping Saturday in December, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses.

As one of the supporters, representatives from Lloyds Bank will be on hand as part of a nationwide bus tour in Plymouth at Frankfort Gate on Tuesday 2nd December to provide support and guidance to local businesses in the run up to the December event.

The bus will give small businesses the opportunity to seek guidance and support from a range of organisations, as well as receiving promotional materials to raise awareness of the campaign.

David Beaumont, area director SME Banking in the South West, Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “As a champion of the UK’s small businesses, Lloyds Bank is proud to support Small Business Saturday and encourage consumers to shop locally.

“We understand how important small businesses are to the UK which is why we work closely with a range of local professionals and business advisors in the community to share knowledge and ensure that SMEs are equipped to grow.”

The South West is full of thriving small businesses that contribute tremendously to the local economy. Indeed, the latest Lloyds Bank Purchasing Manager’s Index report in November showed that both private sector business activity and employment had remained in growth since April 2013 across the South West.

By playing an active part in Small Business Saturday and supporting businesses in the run up to the day Lloyds Bank is hoping not only to encourage consumers to shop locally, but also to equip small enterprises with the right information and tools required to grow and succeed in the future.