Addiscotts Dog Food in Dorset named one the UK’s top ‘Small Biz 100’

They have been selected as a trail-blazer in the official count-down to Small Business Saturday, which takes place across the UK on 1 December 2018.

The achievements and contribution to the local community of Addiscotts will be celebrated and spotlighted on 21 November at the Pit Site car park, Christchurch, when the iconic Bus Tour comes to town in the run-up to Small Business Saturday on the 1 December.

This is part of the campaign’s mission to celebrate small business success, and encourage the nation to ‘shop local’ and support British small businesses.

Addiscotts, based in Verwood, was set up by Claire Addiscott just a year ago, when she was unable to find a satisfactory food product for her dog that had consistent stomach problems. She developed a range of kibble which offers a balanced diet containing a wide range of nutrients, a large proportion of meat content and freshly prepared meats, vegetables and botanicals.

Claire said,“I’m absolutely thrilled to have been selected as one of Small Business Saturday’s 100 for 2018. It was a fantastic surprise, particularly as I haven’t been in business long, but it’s wonderful to have my passion for believing in dog health recognised.

“I’m delighted to be part of Small Biz 100 not only for my own recognition, but because of the encouragement and support small businesses offer each other. It’s all about collaborating and sharing skills and knowledge but also about encouraging the general public to shop local and support the small businesses around them whether, that’s an independent high street shop or one of the many hidden businesses that offer fantastic products and services working from home.

“There’s so many of us these days that need a financial income but want to be there to support our family as they grow too and when customers support small businesses they make a real difference. So it’s also about creating the awareness of those small businesses so people have the opportunity to use them. I think we’re all a lot more conscious these days of supporting locally if we’re given the opportunity.”

Addiscotts’ nominated day is on 21 November, when the Small Biz 100 iconic Bus Tour comes to Christchurch at the Pit Site car park. There will be several independent businesses there showcasing their products and services. The Mayor of Christchurch, Councillor Mrs Lesley Dedman and Councillor David Flagg, Leader of the Christchurch Borough Council as well as Councillor Mrs Trish Jamieson, Deputy Leader of Christchurch Borough Council will be there to welcome the bus and talk to the businesses showcasing.

“I’m looking forward to talking about our business and sharing stories with others of these amazing dogs that we share so much of our lives with. We’ll be giving away turkey and cranberry meatballs on sweet potato crackers as a canape so you can taste what your dog might experience when eating our food, as well as a take away treat of the actual dog food for your dog to enjoy. I can advise on the best kibble for individual dog breeds and we’ll offer 10% off any purchase too. We’ll be there from 10am to 2pm so come down and join us.”

Participation in Small Business Saturday is free, and any small businesses can get involved. In addition to the big day, the campaign also aims to deliver help and advice alongside opportunities to connect with other small businesses.