Research reveals that for every ksh10 spent with a local independent business means up to an additional £50 finds its way back into the local economy.

This is because the local business owners you are spending your money with will, in turn, put that money back into the local community by using local suppliers and employing people which all helps to keep the local economy thriving.

Where employment is concerned, small local businesses are collectively the nation’s largest employer and provide jobs within thousands of local communities.

During this pandemic we have witnessed the temporary closure of thousands of retailers, barbers, restaurants, and cafes which are vital to the livelihood of these businesses. However, we have also seen a surge of innovation from this sector which has seen the wide embrace of technology and ingenuity - you can read about these and more stories on our dedicated Buy Local hub here.

Karl Sandall, Group Chief Executive at TaxAssist Accountants, said: “I am really impressed with how local businesses, during this difficult time, have shown tremendous energy and innovation in adapting how they operate."

“I am buying from them as much as possible here in my local area; the local market stall holders, hardware shops, bakeries and restaurants are all doing home deliveries or an order and collect service and so they are open for business. Please support small businesses in the same way in your local areas. We need them all and we must help them as much as we can as they truly are the backbone of the economy".

your own business ourselves, which not all accountants do. Each of our 375 offices are owned and operated by independent accountants who trade under one brand with full support and guidance from a national support centre. Each day running your own business presents interesting challenges but during these unprecedented times we must do all we can to help someone who operates a business in the local area. They employ people, they directly and indirectly give back to the local community so it's a sound investment when you buy local.”

If you wish to support this initiative, then please share your views using the hashtag #BuyLocal on social media and support your local independent businesses and keep our communities thriving.