MPs pay tribute to Oldham's 'valuable' small businesses

Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon MP celebrated ‘Small Business Saturday’ with local business men and women.

Mr McMahon spent time visiting Rhode Island Coffee in Oldham, Dream Big Sports in Chadderton, Patchwork Parade in Chadderton, Oozewood Tyres in Royton, Xquisite Collections in Coldhurst and IMIJS studios in Hollinwood.

The local MP spoke with business owners and workers about the valuable contribution their business makes to the community, and also gathered their thoughts on the opportunities and challenges they face.

Mr McMahon was joined during the day by fellow MPs Debbie Abrahams and Angela Rayner.

Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities.

The day itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses.

On Small Business Saturday, customers across the U.K go out and support all types of small businesses, online, in offices and in stores.

Many small businesses take part in the day by hosting events and offering discounts.

Mr McMahon said: “It was a pleasure to highlight the work of small business across Oldham, Royton and Chadderton.

“We are fortunate to have such an ambitious and mutually supportive small business community and its right that there is a national campaign called Small Business Saturday to celebrate the contribution they all make.

“I thank the local businesses who took the time to meet with me, and to all small businesses in the area who provide a valuable contribution to our local community.”

Mrs Abrahams added: "Small Business Saturday was a great opportunity for me to go around the constituency and talk to business owners about how things are for them, to hear what’s going well or what they might need help with.

“It’s also a great opportunity for me to start my Christmas shopping and make sure I’m supporting the local economy by shopping local!”

Two of the businesses Mrs Abrahams visited were Cissie Barlow’s Traditional Sweet Shop, in Shaw, and the Vintage Cupcake Kitchen, in Uppermill.

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