We've spent a lot of time over the last week getting about in Derby and talking to local people. It's been great hearing what folks think about local businesses, and we've had some great feedback on some who are really appreciated by the community.
Derby's indoor markets provide some of the best fresh food for miles around, along with great personal service and reasonable prices. We chatted with many stallholders, and spent money with several of them whilst talking about how business was going.
There are some really passionate people out there, and they seemed to have the busiest stalls.
There were also some people who weren't so happy, smiley, friendly and helpful. A few even confessed to not using other local businesses. One even stated that he did all his shopping at one of the large supermarkets. Coincidentally, these were the people who seemed to be doing less trade.
Our Buy Local survey last year found that over 90% of people think that the independents give our high street its character, and most prefer to buy from local shops. We also know that people buy from those they know, like and trust.
So, congratulations to our great market traders, and to those who don't try so hard, good luck, you might need it.