The longest serving MP for Reading has launched his annual competition to highlight independent business success stories in the town.
Reading's longest-serving MP has kicked off his annual competition to showcase local independent businesses.
Matt Rodda, Labour MP for Reading Central, is calling for nominations for his Small Business Saturday competition, which celebrates outstanding customer service and the impact of small businesses.
This initiative, which originated in the USA, will be celebrated in the UK on Saturday, December 6.
Rodda is inviting nominations in eight categories, including pubs, food & drink, clothing, and homeware, plus an ‘other’ category.
Nominations can be submitted via the Small Business Awards 2025 page on his website, with each entry counting as a vote for the nominated business.
Last year's winners included The Greyfriar pub and Eclectic Games, which recently relocated to Duke Street. Other notable winners were the Strong Womens Club, promoting fitness for women, and Caversham Holistics, known for its relaxing therapies.
One nominator praised Caversham Holistics, saying: “I always leave feeling relaxed and refreshed.”
Don’t miss your chance to support local businesses; nominations for the 2025 awards close on Wednesday, November 26.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
