How to help small businesses keep afloat
Sophie Lombardi
Since 2020, small businesses have been hammered by a string of compounding challenges: the pandemic, Brexit-related trade complications, inflation, rising interest rates, and now a cost-of-living crisis that has shrunk consumer spending. Half a million closures in just a few years reflects not just economic downturns but also a structural shift away from the diversity and individuality that small enterprises offer.
Most people want to support small, local, or ethical businesses — but when your weekly budget barely covers the essentials, the idea of spending extra on handmade or independent goods can feel like a luxury you just can’t afford.
But supporting independent businesses doesn’t always mean spending more money. Here are some meaningful, low-cost or no-cost ways you can help:
Spread the word
Like, comment on, and share their posts on social media. Algorithms favour engagement — this increases visibility and helps them reach paying customers.
Leave a positive review on Google, Etsy, Trustpilot, or wherever they sell. A glowing review can be as valuable as a sale.
Buy thoughtfully when you do spend
When you do need to buy something — a gift, card, household item, food, etc. — check if a local or independent seller offers it first.
Even small purchases like a £3 bar of handmade soap, a loaf from a local bakery, or a birthday card from a local artist make a difference.
Use community-driven models
Attend or promote local markets, craft fairs, and pop-ups, even just to show up, take photos, and share.
Support the idea of small business in your conversations
Talk about the value of local shops and makers. Advocate for them when conversations with friends turn to shopping.
Here at Poppy and Honesty, we’re really feeling the pinch. Like so many small, independent businesses, the rising costs of living and the drop in non-essential spending have made things incredibly tough.
We know everyone’s watching their pennies right now — we are too — and we completely understand that shopping small isn’t always an option. But if you’d like to support us in other ways, we would be so grateful. Every little action helps keep independent shops like ours alive.
Here are just some of our favourite independent shops
The Snow Shepperd : Handcrafted, sustainable homeware and play things.
Lowena Flowers ; Beautiful independent florist based in Falmouth. Heavenly buckets of flora and fauna.
Stocky and Dee : Woven pet accessories handmade in Scotland from premium yarns and velvets.
Florence Mytum : Colourful ceramics in quirky designs.
Grace Percival Designs : Original artwork of all your favourite things put together in a hand painted frame.
Please share the small business love and add your recommendations below.
Sophie xxx
