Small and independent businesses in•Edinburgh South•make a vital contribution to our community and economy, as well as adding to the character of the town and are a source of local jobs.

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As a former small business owner myself, I know that running your own business is hugely rewarding but there are numerous pressures which are unique to the job.

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That’s why we’ve got to get behind our local shops and firms as part of this year’s Small Business Saturday. From independent shops and boutiques to the local corner shops and convenience stores across my constituency, we should take the opportunity to shine a spotlight on them to celebrate what they do.

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The idea of ‘Small Business Saturday’ comes from the USA. Last year, we helped bring the idea to the UK and a movement was born. Small Business Saturday is a grass-roots campaign that encourages people to shop locally and support small and independent businesses in the local community.

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Rejoice! We are now on @audioBoom. Why not join us over there and listen to our latest uploads. http://t.co/tLh1co86Ua

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– SmallBizSatUK (@SmallBizSatUK) October 29, 2014

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Last year was the first time it took place. It was the largest celebration of small business the country had seen. Nearly half of consumers who knew about the day made purchases because of it and almost £500m of extra trade went to small firms. It also helped local small business link together, championed their vital role in local communities and created a buzz about entrepreneurship and people starting out.

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I’m backing @SmallBizSatUK today. http://t.co/ITuTlFAiK3 first stop @HendersonWines (is it too early?)

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– Ian Murray MP (@IanMurrayMP) December 7, 2013

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That’s why I’ll be celebrating Small Business Saturday on Saturday 6 December and shopping at local small firms. I’ll be working with small and independent businesses in the constituency to support special events to celebrate their contribution to the local economy and the local community. I would encourage all small business to take advantage of the day and the huge amount of national publicity that will be surrounding it. Last year it was trending on Twitter throughout the day and you can read this article about how I got involved. If any local small business owners are interested in promoting their business as part of the celebrations then please see https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/ for more information and ideas.

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Let’s back our small businesses on 6 December 2014.