South Devon MP Caroline Voaden joined residents and shop owners across the region to mark Small Business Saturday 2025 by celebrating some of the area’s greenest, friendliest, and most creative enterprises.
Last month, Voaden launched a “Support Local” competition, inviting people across her constituency to nominate their favourite small businesses in three categories. Dozens of nominations came in, highlighting the passion local people have for the independent businesses that shape their towns and villages.
Meet the Winners
After hundreds of comments and nominations across social media, three South Devon businesses came out on top:
Most Creative Small Business: A Kick Up The Arts
Greenest Small Business: The Cove Discovery Project
Friendliest Small Business: Dutch Quality Flowers
In the run-up to Small Business Saturday, Voaden visited each winner to present their certificates in person and hear more about the opportunities and challenges they face. The MP has been hosting regular business roundtables since her election and also serves as Vice-Chair of the Hospitality and Tourism All-Party Parliamentary Group.
Why Small Business Saturday Matters
Small Business Saturday is an annual campaign encouraging people to “shop small” and celebrate the UK’s 5.45 million small businesses. With rising costs and economic uncertainty affecting independent traders nationwide, this year’s event carried particular significance.
Local businesses have reported pressure from increased operating costs and concerns around national policies affecting employers. Community support, both practical and vocal, remains vital.
Local Voices
Voaden said she was delighted by the level of engagement in the competition: “The response to my Support Local competition was amazing. I loved seeing everyone nominating the small businesses that contribute so much to their local communities. I wish I could have given an award to everyone, but having visited the winners I can absolutely see why they came out on top!”
She also highlighted the importance of stronger national support for small businesses and reaffirmed her commitment to championing them in Parliament.
The winning businesses shared their excitement too:
The Cove Discovery Project celebrated Brixham’s strong showing: “This is such a positive initiative. It’s lovely that Brixham received two category wins out of three! We are so proud.”
A Kick Up The Arts also expressed gratitude: “In a constituency renowned for creativity, we are thrilled to be voted Most Creative Small Business — and to be bringing it home for Brixham.”
Keeping It Local
Small Business Saturday may be just one day in the calendar, but South Devon’s enthusiasm highlights a year-round truth: independent businesses remain at the heart of community life. From creative studios to eco-friendly projects and local flower shops, the finalists and winners show the best of what the region has to offer.
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