Some of Reading’s best small businesses have been honoured following a hotly fought contest.
Reading East MP Matt Rodda called on his constituents to nominate their favourite firm for his annual awards.
The winners were announced on December 2 – Small Business Saturday.
The include a florist, a yoga instructor, an Italian deli, and a hair stylist.
Mr Rodda will present winners with certificates over the coming days.
In a statement on social media, he wrote: “I would like to congratulate the winners and to thank all our local small businesses for the contribution that they make to our town.
“My competition received hundreds of nominations, which shows just how well loved our local businesses are. Small enterprises are at the centre of our communities and need our support – so, if you can, please keep supporting them today, throughout the festive period and beyond.
“Thank you once again to everyone who voted and have helped me celebrate so many of the fantastic small businesses in Reading.”
Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK, said: “We want to shine a light on the nation’s fantastic small firms and instil a real sense of optimism for next year, especially at a time when many entrepreneurs are struggling with some persistent economic challenges.
“I encourage everyone to support their favourite small businesses, in person and online, during the campaign and all year round.”
The Reading East Small Business Saturday winners are:
Goods and Services: Forget Me Nots florist, St Peter’s Road, Earley
Restaurants and Eateries: Mama’s Way, Duke Street, Reading
Hobbies and Pastimes: Eclectic Games, Smelly Alley (Union Street), Reading
Wellbeing and Activities: Yoga with Tessa, Caversham
Cafes and Coffee Shops: Madoo, Italian Deli Café, Duke Street, Reading
Arts, Crafts & Entertainment: SH Music, Reading
Pubs and Bars: The Greyfriar, Greyfriars Road, Reading
Beauty and Self-Care: NYLON Hair Artists, Duke Street, Reading
