Michelle Ovens CBE
Director, Small Business Saturday UK
Small Business Saturday celebrates the UK’s small businesses, highlighting their vital role in the economy and growing optimism among entrepreneurs despite ongoing challenges.
The UK’s 5.6 million small businesses1 are the heart of our communities and a powerhouse for the economy.From local cafes to independent makers, they infuse passion and personality into everything they do. However, challenges over recent years, including the pandemic, Brexit and rising costs, have underlined the need for support to boost this critical section of the economy.
A key initiative is Small Business Saturday UK. Taking place tomorrow (6 December), this grassroots, longstanding campaign encourages the public to support and spend with small businesses, recognising the vital role of entrepreneurs in driving economic growth.
Nation’s favourite businesses
Over the decade it has been running, Small Business Saturday has engaged millions and generated billions of pounds in spending for small businesses across the UK.
However, this public support and affection run much deeper. New research from Small Business Saturday UK and American Express — the campaign’s founder and principal supporter — shows that nearly half of us have a favourite local business, with cafes topping the list, followed by independent restaurants and bakeries. Most (95%) believe small businesses enrich our local communities, and 68% see them boosting local economies.
Over the decade it has been running, Small Business Saturday has engaged millions
and generated billions of pounds in spending for small businesses across the UK.
Future for entrepreneurs
Despite the challenges over recent years, optimism is starting to grow. In the UK, the number of small businesses has risen to 5.6 million 1, following a general decline in the small business population since 2020.
Additionally, American Express’ annual SME Business Barometer revealed that 73% of entrepreneurs are confident about their future, a four-percentage-point increase from last year. Over two-thirds (68%) also believe their business is resilient and prepared to withstand challenges.
While there are signs the UK’s economy is turning despite ongoing global uncertainty, this momentum requires ongoing support. Small Business Saturday UK aims to provide this crucial backing during the festive season and beyond.
By continuing to support entrepreneurs on Small Business Saturday and throughout the year, we can boost their confidence and success, ensuring they thrive for the benefit of our economy and wider communities for the future.
[1] Department for Business & Trade. (2025). Business population estimates for the UK and regions 2025: statistical release. GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/business-population-estimates-2025/business-population-estimates-for-the-uk-and-regions-2025-statistical-release
