Gordon Macdonald MSP Supports Shopping Locally This Winter

Edinburgh Pentland’s MSP Gordon Macdonald visited newly opened The Plant Shop in Juniper Green as part of the Small Business Saturday initiative which took place on 3 December to meet with Supervisor Craig Frost.

Mr Macdonald is urging local residents to shop local this winter, citing the pressures facing small businesses trying to recover from the pandemic, tackling the challenges of Brexit and meeting the cost of living pressures.

Commenting Mr Macdonald said:

“Shopping locally is a simple way for individuals to play a part in supporting their local businesses and economies – these businesses provide jobs in the local area and play a significant role in making our community so vibrant.

“Truth be told, there has never been a more important time to shop local whenever you can as businesses are still recovering from the pandemic, facing the challenges of the UK Government’s Brexit folly and the pressures of rising bills we are all seeing.

“The SNP government is helping our businesses recover as much as it can but we can all play our part individually too, by visiting our local cafes, shops, bars, salons, restaurants and many more businesses we are lucky to have across the local area.

“Small, independent businesses make a big difference to our communities and local economy so I encourage everyone to get involved in supporting our independent local businesses all year round.”

Craig Frost from The Plant Shop said:

“Opening at the end of August 2022, as an extension of Merryhatton Garden Centre, The Plant Shop has seen incredible support from the local communities and thanks to local word of mouth, the opening event and more recent shopping events have been very well received.

“Even through challenging times for both businesses and individuals, we believe we have managed to bring a new lease of life to 540a Lanark Road where customers feel right at home in a bright inspirational shop. The shop local initiative which started many years ago is what helps businesses like us continue to operate.”