Sarah Willingham talks shop
Sarah Willingham, a British entrepreneur, investor and consumer champion, explores the current trends happening on the high street. In her role as American Express Shop Small Ambassador, she highlights the creativity within independent shops and celebrates the people behind successful small businesses.
Sustainable Christmas gifts
If you’re looking to shop sustainably this Christmas without compromising on style and design, then look no further than your local high street. Shop Small ambassador Sarah Willingham heads to Manchester to meet chef, author and sustainability champion, Melissa Hemsley to uncover some of the city’s hidden gems.
So whether you’re looking for eco-friendly stocking fillers or beautiful gifts built to last a lifetime, watch the full video to find out more.
Run your business sustainably
We sent our Shop Small ambassador Sarah Willingham to meet Liam, owner of The Deadstock General Store in Manchester, to see how he has developed a successful business by stocking products that are traditionally made and have a lower environmental impact.
So, if you’re looking for tips on how to run your business more sustainably, watch the full video to find out more.
Giddy Grocer
If you’re looking to inject something new to your offering, then the world is your oyster. We sent our Shop Small ambassador Sarah Willingham to visit Chris, owner of the Giddy Grocer in Bermondsey, to see how she has been able to meet a growing consumer demand for global tastes.
Watch for Sarah’s tips on how you can apply this big picture approach to your business.
Broadway Market
Shop Small ambassador Sarah Willingham is joined by foodie social media influencer James, as they go in search of some globally inspired tidbits from the small shops in and around Broadway Market, London.
Not only do they take in some of the James’ local favourites, but there’s some great tips on how to serve these global ingredients at home.
Interior inspiration
If you’re looking to inject some fresh style into your home then have you thought about visiting the local small businesses in your area? Packed full of unique, one of a kind items, you’ll also benefit from the expertise and passion of the people who run them.
We sent our Shop Small Ambassador, Sarah Willingham out and about to see first hand how shopping small can fuel your interior inspiration.
Sarah's tips for small business success
"Creative workshops are becoming more popular than ever,’ reveals Sarah Willingham, American Express" Shop Small ambassador. "It’s a great way for small independent businesses to attract customers and generate an added boost to their profits. People love learning something new and are increasingly looking for an experience beyond just buying a product. Running a workshop is a lovely add-on and really maximises the return on the company’s assets."
If you’re a small business owner and the thought of introducing a workshop appeals to you, then here are Sarah’s top 3 tips for success:
1. Don’t be afraid of giving away your magic
You’ll be making people appreciate and respect your expertise, not giving away your trade secrets. It lets you share your passion and feel rewarded while you are doing so.
2. Marketing is essential You need to tell people what you’re doing.
Put a sign outside, tease people on your social media channels and reward your existing customers for spreading the word, such as giving them a discount if they return with friends.
3. Think about the experience
Make it as fun, as interactive and as memorable as possible, because ultimately, your customers are your best marketeers. Keep the workshops different enough so that customers feel they can keep coming back to build on existing skills or learn new ones.
Insights and tips
We can all achieve more in business if someone has our back.
That’s why we’ve been working with Shop Small Ambassador and Entrepreneur, Sarah Willingham to offer some tips and insights about attracting customers and tapping into consumer trends to add value and revenue to your business.
Sarah's podcast
People love learning something new and are increasingly looking for an experience which offers them more than just a product.
So, with creative workshops becoming more popular than ever, Sarah Willingham, British entrepreneur and American Express Shop Small ambassador speaks to Nik Southern from East London florist Grace & Thorn about how small businesses can attract new customers and generate a boost to their profits.