The Councillor for East Belfast was speaking a month after she officially launched Small Business Saturday – a UK-wide initiative – adding the campaign can give local retailers a vital boost in the run up to Christmas, allowing them to promote offers, discounts and special events.
“We must take every opportunity to support our business community, a sector Alliance is committed to protecting and growing,” she said.
“Across Belfast and Northern Ireland there have been many events organised. Alliance is fully behind the Small Business Saturday Campaign and keen to help and support the economic development of independent businesses – the backbone of our local economy.
“Shopping local on Small Business Saturday is a fantastic way for local people to show their backing for traders in the run up to Christmas and I would encourage everyone to shop local on December 5.”