Small‑Business Spirit Shakes Up UK Holiday Shopping
Got a gift list and a mini‑budget? Stop scrolling through big‑box websites – the latest GoDaddy study shows that British shoppers are actually choosing small shops over the giants, especially this festive season.
Why Size Matters
- 54 % of shoppers aim to finish their gifting spree before January—so the pressure is real.
- Despite the cost‑of‑living crunch, 7 out of 10 are ready to pay a little extra for a local shop over a chain.
- Small shops get a boost: last year saw a sharp uptick in new small‑business launches as shoppers chased the gift rush.
The “Small is Sustainable” Trend
Picture this: you’re buying that perfect personalised mug, and you need the supplement of a friendly, locally owned shop. GoDaddy’s numbers back the idea that in-store connections aren’t just a fad—they’re the future of consumer vibes.
What It Means for Big Brands
Big mugs—and big shops—will feel a bite to their market share. It’s a fresh reminder that shoppers prefer a personal touch over a faceless catalogue.
Next Steps for Shoppers
- Start small: pick a beloved local shop.
- Shop early: beat the December crowds.
- Support the dream: let micro‑and nano‑businesses grow.
So, ready to trade the mega‑shopping experience for a cozy boutique? Go digging for that hand‑crafted holiday gift and be part of the movement that’s reshaping UK retail, one small shop at a time.
Seasonal shopping competition hotting up
Black Friday, Holiday Shopping, and the Small Biz Boom
Forget the hype, the holiday season is truly getting consumer‑friendly—and our small‑business owners are riding the wave. Below is a fresh take on the latest numbers, peppered with a bit of humor and everyday banter.
The Gift‑Buying Shuffle
Did you know that 10 % of shoppers toss most of their presents on Black Friday? Even crazier, 23 % of 18‑to‑24‑year‑olds live for that last‑minute spree.
- 1 in 5 Brits (20 %) are budgeting for six to ten gifts this year.
- 40 % discover the best bargains through social‑media ads. Those youngsters really do scrolled their way to savings.
- 62 % of the under‑24 crowd, and 52 % of millennials, find their favourite deals online.
Small‑Biz Owners: The Kettles Are Boiling
Entrepreneurship isn’t a walk in the park—or a calm Sunday brunch. According to recent figures:
- 13 % say marketing is the toughest nut to crack.
- 18 % of micro‑entrepreneurs are now pouring money back into social media ads.
- 21 % admit that staying competitive in pricing and customer attraction is their biggest headache.
But… it’s easier than ever to set up shop
Remember when opening a business felt like building a sandcastle in a hurricane? Those days are officially over. In 2023, 32 % of small‑biz owners said they needed under £1,000 to launch.
And the holiday season isn’t just a shopping frenzy—it’s a market opportunity. 41 % of Brits were planning a side hustle to boost holiday income.
AI: Your Friendly MVP
Artificial Intelligence is now your go-to sidekick:
- Nearly 30 % of UK entrepreneurs tap AI to get online faster.
- 76 % use Gen AI for marketing, creating snappy social media posts.
- 45 % rely on it to fine‑tune marketing strategies.
- 13 % use AI to drive sales.
Meet GoDaddy’s Airo
A great way to equip your startup is GoDaddy’s Airo, an AI‑powered, customizable platform:
- Find the perfect domain name.
- Build a website with just a few clicks.
- Design a logo that pops.
“The festive season is all about gift‑giving, and despite cost‑of‑living jitters, Brits keep buying gifts high and proud.”
—Andrew Gradon, Head of GoDaddy UK & Ireland
“Small businesses don’t have to be small on dreams or ambition. GoDaddy’s tools make marketing easier, so you can focus on bringing your vision to life.”
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