Supporting our local businesses is a key pillar of my ‘My Plan’ for 2023 and the reason is simple; business done right is a force for good. It generates prosperity and jobs. Two central pillars for a thriving local community.
The last few years have been difficult for our high streets. The Government rightly supported Sevenoaks businesses with loans, grants and furlough during the pandemic, but rising energy costs I know are causing huge strains on businesses. It is for this reason that over the summer I was clear that support needed to be put in place, and while the support introduced is welcome, I still expect the next few months to be tough following the cost-of-living pressures facing families.
We are so lucky to have many independent shops, cafes, and restaurants here in Sevenoaks, and last week it was fantastic to join our brilliant Sevenoaks District Council Leader, Peter Fleming, to welcome the reopening of Eat n’ Mess at SPN Sevenoaks, which can be found opposite Sevenoaks Railway station. Eat n’ Mess has long been one of my favourite places to eat and get a coffee and following a short departure last year, I am delighted they are now back.
In 2022 there were approximately 5.5 million small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the United Kingdom, employing up to 16 million people. And one-in-three (32%) Gen Zs (18-24-year-olds) in the UK plan to set up a business. This entrepreneurial spirit must be nurtured, and I see no reason that these new businesses should not be based right here in Sevenoaks.
At the end of last year, I had the pleasure of visiting Otford Station, alongside local parish councillor Jenny Kelly, where each month the Friends of Otford Station (with support from Southeastern) have enabled the set up pop up craft stalls for local businesses. It is a really great way to showcase our local craft business and I was so impressed with the products on sale. The events take place on the second Thursday of the month, with the next showcase scheduled for Thursday 9th March between 3.30-6.30pm. Do pop by to show your support if you are in the area.
Over the last three years, I’ve supported and celebrated our small businesses through local visits, surgery appointments, and local business shows and awards. But, I want to meet and hear from more, so if you are a local business, please do not hesitate to get in touch with my office at [email protected]. It is vital that our local businesses have the support they need to thrive, and as your MP I fight for your voice to be heard in Westminster.
