Prime Minister hosts Christmas market at No.10

2nd December 2025

No. 10 Downing Street hosted a Christmas market-style showcase, celebrating small firms and frontline workers at its annual light switch-on.

The event was held ahead of Small Business Saturday, which recognises the 5.6 million small businesses operating across the UK.

According to No.10, some of the businesses that took part were Wakuda, a retail and textile brand, Candle Wise, Young Blooms, The Halfway at Tal-Y-Coed, Grasmere Gingerbread and Rumsey’s Handmade Chocolates.

“Small businesses are the beating heart of our economy and the backbone of our communities. said Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

“This Christmas, we’re not just switching on the lights – we are shining a spotlight on the incredible entrepreneurs, traders and family firms that keep our high streets thriving. From extending rates relief to funding apprenticeships, this government is backing small businesses every step of the way, because when they succeed, Britain succeeds.”

This comes as the Government set out new initiatives to aid British business in its 2025 Budget, such as setting up a £4.3 billion business rates support package to cap bill increases for industries hit hardest by revaluations and doubling eligibility for enterprise tax incentives.

Michelle Ovens CBE, Director, Small Business Saturday UK added: “The UK’s 5.6 million small businesses are absolutely vital to the UK, powering economic growth, bringing tremendous value, heart and soul to communities and innovation and impact across broader society.

“It is so crucial that the nation shows support for their favourite small firms this Small Business Saturday and beyond. We are so delighted to be at Downing Street ahead of the campaign to celebrate the phenomenal contribution of small businesses. A spotlight like this as the festive season kicks off is such a powerful reminder to the nation to take a moment to support their local small businesses this Saturday.”