More than three-quarters of Brits want to shop local this Christmas

dailystar.co.uk:

Small Business Hub, an online resource with advice and tips for small business owners. Entrepreneur and TV star Deborah Meaden said: “It is clear that many small businesses are concerned about making enough sales over the Christmas period and managing other pressures, such as high energy bills.“It is therefore heartening to see that many people really do value their local shops, and are willing to put their hands in their pockets to support them.“It is important that small businesses don’t suffer in silence, and do look at what support is available to them.“Energy can be one of the biggest outgoings for small businesses during the winter, so taking all the steps you can to manage yours better, such as getting a smart meter, will help make a difference.”It emerged 83% of retailers are worried about a challenging festive period due to the cost-of-living crisis and high energy prices.December is the busiest trading opportunity of the year for 87%, and a further nine in ten rely on a busy Christmas for long-term success throughout the rest of the year.But 54% believe the current situation of rising costs has been the biggest threat to their business so far – compared to just 17% who thought it was the Covid-19 pandemic.Half are planning to adapt their businesses to stay afloat during the cost-of-living crisis, and one in three (32%) have already taken steps in this process.But as many as eight in ten are interested in more advice about how to manage increased energy costs, as so far only 43% have sought help or advice to get through the winter.Of those who have already asked for support, they found that banks, energy providers, money advice websites, and their accountants proved the most useful.To manage costs, 35% of.