On Saturday (2nd December), Matt Vickers MP for Stockton South was our celebrating Small Business Saturday, a day to promote and champion small businesses around the UK.
Matt Vickers MP stepped out on Saturday to visit local, independent businesses in Stockton South and speak to their owners about what is driving their success and their plans for the future.
Matt began with a trip to Canine Design, a local dog groomers in Hartburn, owned and operated by Helen, who began her business journey after quitting her job in the police force to pursue her passion for dogs. 9 years later she hasn't looked back, hiring 4 extra staff to cope with the demand of a revolving door of 4-legged customers.
Next up was The Ivy Tree, a pub in East Hartburn, owned by Jason, who took over the derelict, ex-public house premises towards the end of 2021. Since then Jason and his business partner have transformed the building to suit a modern, chic interior with an original, classy exterior. Opening in May 2023, Jason told Matt all about his history in the trade and how he has already been able to succeed after trading for less than a year.
A visit to Strickland and Holt next, a gift, toy and fashion shop on Yarm High Street that has been standing since 1854. Owned by familiar faces Stephanie and Paddy, the deceptively large high-street icon has been passed down for generations, originally belonging to Stephanie's great-uncle. Working in retail all her life, Stephanie knows how to make a business tick. Employing local artists designers and producers, Strickland and Holt are Northern and proud, sticking to their roots of selling everything high-quality from art and fashion, to food and drink.
Finally, Fourteen Drops wine bar on Yarm High Street. A quaint, classy hideaway offering internationally sourced wines, snacks and treats, who have now expanded their business to feature a shop within Strickland and Holt. Matt met with Alex, who explained the expansion was to allow for a better browsing experience and for those who want to take the Fourteen Drops experience home with them.
Matt Vickers MP said:
Every year on Small Business Saturday (SBS) I am even more impressed with the entrepreneurialism on display from the best that Stockton has to offer.
Our high streets are flooded with these amazing small businesses, serving locals with a welcoming smile and a chat. It serves as a reminder that, although we use SBS to champion these businesses, we should prioritise them for our day-to-day shopping.
I am also glad to see how well received my campaign to extend the 75% Business Rates Relief was. Many said it was a lifeline for their operations, and I am thankful that these fantastic businesses and their staff will remain with us and can thrive for years to come.
