A Ceredigion crafting shop has been chosen as a finalist in the High Street Hero category at this year’s Small Awards.
Now in its eighth year, The Small Awards is a nationwide search for the smallest and greatest firms in the UK, across all sectors. It is organised annually by Small Business Britain, which champions, inspires and accelerates the nation’s 5.5 million small firms.
Jan Martin and Jon Sayer started The Snail of Happiness in Lampeter to sell pre-loved crafting supplies and new British yarn to promote sustainability and a circular economy within the community. As a part of that, they also run drop-ins and classes in making and mending. It has been selected as one of just eight finalists in the High Street Hero category for best high street business, which celebrates the nation’s standout independents that play a key role on their local high streets and within their communities.
With 11 different categories, the Small Awards celebrate the dynamism and resilience exhibited in the UK’s small business sector, across everything from sustainability heroes to digital stars, to long-standing family businesses.
“The Small Awards is all about celebrating the inspiring small business owners who are at the heart of the economy and their communities,” said Michelle Ovens CBE, Founder of Small Business Britain. “They are an opportunity to recognise and applaud the passion and resilience of the nation’s small firms, particularly amidst such turbulent times. The Snail of Happiness is extremely deserving of being shortlisted for this award and we can’t wait to celebrate with them in May.”
Jan Martin said:
“We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for the High Street Hero award. After opening our doors two years ago, it is incredibly gratifying to be recognised in this way. We have had amazing support from the community, along with help and advice from Smart Busnes and the Cynnal Y Cardi fund. We feel that being shortlisted is, in part, down to that.”
Judged by a panel of industry experts, the winners of all categories, including the overall winner of the Small Business of the Year award, will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on May 16.
