Shoppers are being urged to support local businesses across South Wales East in the run-up to Christmas by the area’s MS.
Natasha Asghar MS made the plea ahead of Small Business Saturday which takes place this weekend and was created to encourage shoppers to take a closer look at local firms to see what they have to offer and maybe focus their Christmas shopping on small businesses close to home.
Following Labour’s recent budget which included a hiking up National Insurance, Natasha believes the region’s small businesses need support more now than ever before.
Businesses are facing a huge increase in costs as a result of the budget with the Office for Budget Responsibility estimating Labour’s job tax will cost them an extra £800 per employee.
One business in South Wales East Natasha spoke with warned their additional net cost will be more than £180,000 in 2025/26.
And Labour ministers in Cardiff Bay are already punishing businesses by clobbering them with the highest business rates in Great Britain.
That’s why Natasha Asghar MS is encouraging people to take another look at the high street to give local businesses a much-needed boost.
Natasha Asghar MS said:
“Small businesses across South Wales East are the absolute backbone of our economy, providing jobs for local people.
“However, they are not receiving the support they need with businesses being punished by Labour Governments at either end of the M4.
“At this time of year, small businesses should be looking forward to the festive shopping period, but many are fearing for the future.
“We have some fantastic businesses here and it is why I hope as many people as possible can support Small Business Saturday, get out to your local high street, and see what they can offer.”
