Councillor Kate Nicholl has urged shoppers across Northern Ireland to support local traders on Small Business Saturday today, December 1.
The local Councillor – who has consistently worked to see Sunday trading advanced in the City Centre – said the performance of the small business sector is an integral part of the overall Northern Ireland economy.
She said: “In many areas independent retailers are at the heart of communities and it is essential that we support them all year round, but especially at this time of year when the ease and comfort of shopping online can take over the experience of shopping locally.
“In Belfast, we have a particular challenge this year in the wake of the Primark Fire. But this has only shone a light further on the fact we must take all opportunities open to us to give local businesses a fighting chance.
“Today is all about the small business and in my own area I know of some fantastic independent businesses who I know will appreciate the support, so I’m urging everyone to go and back what’s happening in your area.”