Small Business Saturday

This Saturday (2 December) is Small Business Saturday, now in its eleventh year the campaign, highlights small business success and encourages residents to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities.

Taking place each year on the first Saturday in December, during Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, online, in offices and in stores. 

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Markets are the perfect place to start, with many small local businesses under one roof. The latest stall to be welcomed to Ellesmere Port Market is Kerala Delight, who specialise in Indian cuisine, they will be offering a breakfast and lunch offer with snack boxes. 

The new stall is due to open next week, Bilji Beno said:

“Kerala Delight was born out of a passion for the diverse and exquisite taste palette of Kerala cuisine. Inspired by the vibrant spices, rich aromas, and the heart-warming stories behind each dish, we set out to create a culinary experience that transports you to the bustling streets of Kerala with every bite. Starting with snack boxes to mini tiffins and traditional rice/curries, we will ensure you get the variety. 

“Our decision to set up shop here was driven by the warm and welcoming community that defines this town. We saw an opportunity to bring something unique to Ellesmere Port Market, an authentic taste of India that resonates with the diverse and discerning palates of the locals.” 

Ellesmere Port Market will be open seven days a week during the lead up to Christmas and is preparing for major improvements, with a planning application being submitted in December to create a more sustainable building and make the market a more welcoming and vibrant space, boost footfall and deliver wider benefits for Ellesmere Port Town Centre. 

New external cladding will improve energy efficiency and help to make the market more attractive and visible with a bright new colour scheme and signage incorporating separate dedicated entrances for the market hall and the flea market event space.                              

Winsford Market is open Monday, Thursday and Saturday, 9am to 4pm, Northwich Market is open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, 9am to 4pm and Chester’s new award-winning Market is open Tuesday to Saturday: 8am until 10pm, Sundays: 10am until 9pm (closed on Mondays). 

Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation said:

“Small Business Saturday is a great campaign to remind all of us how many exciting and hard-working small businesses there are across our borough. When you are out this Saturday, how many can you visit and how many new ones can you find? 

“Our markets are the ideal way for new business ideas to be tested, our markets team can help, whether you are looking for a permanent stall or a pop up to test your new product.”  

For anyone interested in opening their own business or if you have an online business and you want a presence on the high street, Cheshire West markets are offering free starter places funded through the Council's UKSPF Business Support Programme.

For more information, contact: 

markets@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk