It’s Independents Day…

Independent shop

Today is of course the 4th July – a date most commonly known for being American Independence Day. Today is however, in some quarters, being adopted to have a significance closer to home as #independentsday – a day to celebrate local, independent businesses in the UK.

As we approach our 7 year anniversary this month, we thought we’d do a little post about why it’s so great to be an independent business in West Didsbury…

We’ve got a lot to celebrate when it comes to independent businesses here in Didsbury. Our little slice of South Manchester is packed with local people all doing their bit to provide something that little bit different to customers. From the long-established restaurants to laid back bars, quirky retailers to cosy cafes, we are lucky enough to have it all on our doorstep.

Of course all of these offerings would be useless without any custom and this is something we are really lucky with. With both Didsbury folk and visitors coming for a day or evening out from further afield, the loyal customers of the area really are the best. Keeping our local economy thriving is something that will benefit us all and although the ‘locals’ don’t have to go out of their way to support independent businesses, you kind of get the feeling that they would if they had to.

Another of the things we love most about doing business here is the spirit of local business – not only with customers but between business owners themselves. Whilst some might see other indie businesses as ‘competitors’, you rarely find this attitude ‘round our way. That’s because thankfully, there’s enough custom to go around, and as long as you’re providing something that’s that little bit different from the next, it’s possible to carve out your own little niche.

‘Keeping it local’ is something we try to do where possible and often have produce from local producers available to buy in the deli. And when we’ve had enough of eating our famed breakfasts, you may just find us out and about in one of the local restaurants or bars (it’s called ‘networking’!)

We’ve been involved in our very own celebration of independent business ‘West Fest’ since day one and can safely say that every year gets bigger and better. The spirit seems to be catching on…in order to keep our treasured independent businesses, we need to support them.

So get your stars and stripes out…. long live independents!!

For more details about this year’s West Fest, keep your eye on @didsburylife on Twitter or visit www.westfest.org.uk