This Saturday, December 7, marks Small Business Saturday UK, a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting small businesses across the country.
George Phillips, who runs March model shop Phillips Hobbies, is urging the local community to embrace the spirit of the day by shopping small and supporting independent businesses.
George’s passion for small business began early – he launched Phillips Hobbies at just 13-years-old.
Last year, the firm was recognised as one of the UK’s most impressive small firms by the Small Business Saturday campaign.
This year, the focus is on his new shop, which opened in September on Thorby Avenue.
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Phillips Hobbies stocks a wide range of traditional hobby products, including Hornby model railways, diecast models, Scalextric cars, plastic model kits, jigsaw puzzles, construction toys, and farm toys.
George’s mission is to help people rediscover the joys of traditional hobbies.
His shop aims to inspire customers of all ages to explore hands-on, creative pastimes that bring people together and spark the imagination.
Reflecting on the challenges small businesses currently face, George said: “It’s a challenging time for many small businesses, but there’s also so much hope and opportunity when communities come together to support their local firms.
“Christmas trading is absolutely vital for the survival of many independent businesses, including mine.
“Shopping small isn’t just about making a purchase—it’s about investing in your community, supporting job creation, and helping independent businesses to thrive.
“This Saturday is a great chance to show that support, not just for my shop but for all small businesses in March and beyond.”
Phillips Hobbies will be celebrating Small Business Saturday with extended opening hours on the day from 10am to 4pm and special discounts on selected ranges.
Michelle Ovens CBE, director of Small Business Saturday UK, said: “Small businesses like Phillips Hobbies deliver incredible value across their local community and the wider economy.
“Public support is absolutely vital for small businesses across the UK, so we urge everyone up and down the country to get behind them on Small Business Saturday and beyond.”
George added: “Small Business Saturday is a fantastic reminder of the power we all have as consumers.
“By choosing to shop small, we can all make a real difference—not just to local businesses, but to the communities they serve.
“I’m excited to welcome customers to Phillips Hobbies and to see people out and about supporting other local firms in March too.”
Running for over a decade, Small Business Saturday is the UK’s most successful business campaign.
Phillips Hobbies is located Unit 6 March Enterprise Park, Thorby Avenue, March, PE15 0BD, and is open most days in the lead-up to Christmas.
For more information about Small Business Saturday, visit www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com.
