There's also the hyper-local gift choice: independent bookshops often stock titles by local authors that aren't yet on the shelves of the major chains, says Carol Thompson, co-founder of Chorlton Traders, a group of independent businesses based in south Manchester.
Give your niece or nephew a handmade toy and at least it won't be identical to everything they already have.
LLOYD STREET LOVE BEST BUY PLUS
When it comes to gifts, quirky one-off items are a major plus of independent shops. Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else. Along with supporting local farmers, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging. When you shop at local butchers, bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey.
As does eating turkey and carrots that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. It is the ethical choiceīuying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. The research by American Express found that house prices near a prosperous town centre have risen by an average of £40,000 more over the past decade than other properties. High streets populated with thriving independent businesses boost the prices of nearby homes, according to a recent study. Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.