Earlier this month, I brought together local business owners from across Exmouth and Exeter East for a roundtable. I wanted to hear directly from those running our independent shops, trades and services about what is working, what is challenging, and what support they need most right now. The discussion was frank and constructive, rooted in real experience, and it underlined the importance of backing our local economy.
This comes at a difficult moment. Since the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East on 28th February, Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sharply reduced shipping through one of the world’s most important trade routes. That has disrupted the flow of oil, gas and other key goods from the Persian Gulf. The effects are already being felt here in Devon. Fuel prices have risen, household energy bills are expected to increase later in 2026, and the Bank of England now faces the challenge of balancing inflationary pressure with weak growth. Even with a temporary ceasefire, supply chain disruption is likely to persist for some time.
For small businesses, this is also not a distant issue. It means higher costs, tighter margins and customers who are understandably more cautious with their spending. Many are dealing with these pressures on top of an already demanding few years.
One of the most effective ways to support them is to keep spending within our local economy. When money is spent with an independent business, it is far more likely to stay in the area, supporting jobs, paying local rents and being reinvested in the community. Evidence consistently shows that local spending generates greater economic benefit than spending with large national chains or online platforms. That local multiplier effect matters, particularly in times like these.
Of course, households must make decisions that work for their own finances. But where there is a choice, even occasional decisions to buy locally can make a meaningful difference. Whether it is a coffee, a gift, a local service or the weekly shop, those choices add up across the community.
Business owners also highlighted how important visibility is. Simple actions such as leaving a positive online review, following local businesses on social media, or recommending them to others can have a real impact. For many small firms, reputation and word of mouth are critical to their success.
Independent businesses are a vital part of what makes Exmouth and Exeter East such a strong and distinctive place to live. They support local events, contribute to community life and help sustain the character of our high streets. That is worth protecting.
I will continue to raise the concerns of local businesses in Westminster, including pressing for support that reflects the real pressures they are facing as global economic challenges feed through. But there is also a role for all of us. Choosing to support local businesses, and doing so regularly, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to strengthen our community.
