On July 4th people are being encouraged to buy at least one item from a local, independent retailer.What a brilliant idea - but you should try it every week!

Based in Leith, Edinburgh, we already like to do that and are great fans of the Leith Village Store, a locally sourced, fairly traded 'farmers market' held every week at the Out Of The Blue Drill Hall on Dalmeny Street.

There's no shortage of independent retailers in our area and indeed, almost wherever you are. Supporting independent retailers helps keep a buoyant and vibrant mix of businesses in your local area, rather than seeing everything turn into more of the same 'big-name brands.' When it comes to food, it also supports local producers and reduces the number of 'food miles' in your shopping basket considerably.

So look after the small businesses and keep your area diverse, competitive and unique!