As well as shopping with small businesses that pivoted online or adapted with click and collect, consumers took to their local high streets when they were permitted, supporting the national effort to help keep independent businesses afloat.

Although the desire to spend money locally is undimmed in 2021, small businesses still need our custom this summer and beyond as they emerge from an exceptionally challenging year.

That is why Holly & Co, proudly supported by NatWest, is launching its first ever Campaign Shop Independent for the month of June, building up to its first #ShopIndependentDay on 25 June. From Aberdeen to Land’s End, the country’s small businesses – from high-street retailers and restaurants to beauticians, creatives and makers – will be championed and recognised.

Holly Tucker MBE, founder of Holly & Co and co-founder of Notonthehighstreet, explains why she is calling on the British public to shop with small businesses and for indies and customers to shout from the rooftops about their involvement.

“Small businesses are the backbone of the UK economy, making up 99.9% of all private sector business,” she says. “After a turbulent year, they need our support more than ever. I am urging the nation to vote with their money and shop with UK small businesses to ensure that they not only survive but thrive.

“Throughout this colourful and creative national campaign, I will be touring the country and shining a light on brilliant independents, and showcasing how you can support small. There are a whole host of exciting ways you can get involved.”

The tour

A tour bus will be travelling around the country meeting hundreds of local businesses and customers helping to make their communities thriving places to be. The tour runs from Monday 21 June – Friday 25 June, with locations to be revealed. Put the dates in your diaries if you want to welcome the bus and get involved.

The media

Every Thursday, Tucker will welcome two businesses to her podcast series, shining a light on the founders and their achievements. The first podcast will be broadcast on 3 June.

She is also hosting hour-long episodes at 10am every Monday on Instagram. IG Lives bring to life the latest from the campaign trail, speaking to Holly & Co reporters across the country who are helping to galvanise their communities and using the campaign and its messaging to support and champion small businesses.

The kit

For any small, independent business that would like to visibly support the campaign in shop windows or displays, Holly & Co has produced a free downloadable marketing kit. This library of assets aims to help businesses connect with their customers and communicate the importance of shopping independently.

To find out more visit holly.co.