I've long since held the opinion that small local businesses are the very backbone of this country. I firmly believe that we would not have survived multiple recessions without them.
Unlike larger corporates we can adapt quickly to change, make cuts that don't necessarily mean job losses and also recover at a faster rate.
Your custom doesn't go to fund a holiday home in the Bahamas or a 201 BMW, it feeds and clothes children, pays rent and mortgages and has a knock on effect of boosting other businesses as well.
This Christmas if you have the choice, why not think about spending your hard earned cash with a small business even better if its local to your community, as that will have a direct impact on those around you and closest to you.