SMALL businesses in Reading are being urged to take advantage of a government digital scheme to boost flagging sales.
Two years of covid lockdowns, closures and restrictions have dented profits for many retailers and other traders.
But Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, called on businesses to register now for the new initiative which can halve the cost of choosing the right software to transform sales and production.
It follows last week’s successful launch of Small Business Saturday, an annual event which aims to raise the High Street’s profile and promote the benefits of shopping local.
In 2020, more than £1.1 billion was spent on the day with an estimated 15.4 million people turning out to support small businesses and this year’s figures are expected to be higher.
Mr Sharma visited a number of local traders and helped co-judge the Christmas window competition for businesses located in Theale High Street.
“Following Covid-19, it is vital that small businesses grow and thrive again,” he explained.
“The Government wants to give the UK’s many businesses the support and skills they need to drive the innovation, growth and job creation as we move towards a secure and prosperous future.
“This includes making sure every small and medium business in the country has access to productivity-boosting training and digital technology.”
He added: “It was great to be out and about in my constituency on Small Business Saturday.
“I was delighted to be asked to judge the Christmas shop window competition for local businesses on Theale High Street. Huge congratulations go to The Falcon for winning the competition, with La Baguetterie and Frame Direct close runners-up.
“I am grateful to Theale Parish Council for organising the whole evening so brilliantly.”
Mr. Sharma encouraged small and medium businesses in Reading to sign up for the Help to Grow Digital scheme which offers free and impartial advice and support online, to help business leaders choose software that will transform their business.
Earlier this year, the Chancellor announced the Help to Grow Management scheme which provides businesses with 90% subsidised management and leadership training, as well as access to alumni networks and one-to-one mentoring
Help to Grow Digital which will be launched in the New Year will help business leaders choose software that will transform their business. It will also offer a discount of up to 50%, worth up to £5,000, towards the purchase of approved software from a range of leading technology suppliers.
Paul Scully, Minister for Small Business praised the resiliance of Reading’s business community: “We all know the impact that COVID-19 has had on our small businesses, and we have all been humbled by the resilience, resolve and determination they have shown in innovating and adapting to the challenges of the pandemic.
” Small Business Saturday 2021 is an opportunity to show our continued support and encourage our local communities to do so as well.”
