
Making a difference with your wallet this festive season
Pay it forward with gift ideas that will delight your loved ones and do some good for the world.
5 min read
As the festive season comes upon us, our thoughts often turn to gift-giving and the joy it brings. But this year, why not consider an approach that not only brings joy to loved ones but also positively impacts the world around you? Here, we explore how festive spending can be both meaningful and beneficial.Making up 90% of all businesses, small and medium-sized businesses are the backbone of the global economy. Yet, the past few years have been particularly challenging for smaller companies globally. In the EU, the pandemic, economic uncertainties, and inflation have all impacted smaller shops and local businesses — but despite the challenges, they’ve shown resilience. In 2022, in terms of value added to the economy, European small businesses grew by 6.7% in current prices.Smaller businesses are often favored for their unique approach to products and customer service. They usually offer handcrafted and local items — not just products, but stories imbued with personal touches, making each gift special and memorable. This uniqueness stems from their dedication to or appreciation of craftsmanship and attention to detail, which sets them apart from mass-produced items. Alongside their product offerings, small businesses are often known for their personalized customer service. They typically go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction, which can make shopping a genuinely heartwarming and memorable experience.All this adds up to a meaningful way to give back. Supporting small businesses during the festive season isn’t just about finding the perfect gift; it's about investing in the economic and cultural fabric of our communities. By buying from small and medium-sized brands, you consciously decide to contribute to local communities and cultural preservation. The money spent in local businesses often stays within the community, creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone and helps create jobs, fund local services, and contribute to the overall health of the local economy.As awareness of climate change grows, there's been a significant shift towards sustainable gift-giving