Great value doesn't always mean discounts and bundles. This Black Friday, what we may lack in deals, we make up for with seriously feel-good experiences courtesy of talented, local independents. Choosing to shop local this Black Friday is a small choice that could make a big difference as we head into the end of the year. Here's three reasons to support local businesses this Black Friday...
1. Your money will go towards supporting your local high streets
When you buy from a local business, you’re investing in the people and places around you. Whether it’s the neighbourhood café, an independent maker, a family-run bookstore or a local artisan gift shop, your purchase helps keep doors open, people employed and the vibrancy of your local high street alive.
In a world where shopping shifts ever more online, those local interactions matter for the character of our cities. Pictured below is the wonderful Ffion, a Welsh miniature model maker and stained glassed artist based in Bristol. Ffion sells a treasure trove of gifts as well as hosting fabulous pressed flower and stained glass workshops.
2. Lower environmental cost
Black Friday sales often trigger a surge of deliveries, returns and packaging waste - all of which carry an environmental cost. But by choosing local businesses you can often opt for in-store pick up, fewer delivery miles, less packaging, and smaller carbon footprint overall.
In 2025, as many of us are even more conscious of sustainability, this is a meaningful way to let your spending reflect your values. And of course, if you buy a local experience gift this Christmas you’ll not only be supporting local, but also be helping cut emissions!
3. You’ll make a tangible difference for independent business owners
The past few years have brought big challenges for many small businesses: economic uncertainty, rising costs and online competition. When you spend your money locally, you’re giving a vote of confidence to those running independent shops, supporting their resilience and showing that we still value unique products and unique experiences.
From restaurant vouchers to handcrafted homeware and locally hosted experiences both in person and online. By choosing to spend your money with a local business you’ll be putting a huge smile on the face of independents.
How to make your Black Friday shopping count:
• Browse in-town as well as online. If a local shop has an online presence, check their local collection options.
• Avoid excessive impulse buys. Pick gifts or treats that will be used and appreciated, so fewer returns and less waste.
• Gift an experience (such as a local workshop, class or tour) rather than a physical product, for something memorable and plastic packaging free!
We understand how easy it is to get wrapped up in the Black Friday noise, but try to think about where and who you’re buying from. Spending locally might not always mean the deepest discount, but it often means greater value: for your community, for the environment, and for the people behind the business.
So if you want to start ticking off your Christmas list, you can discover thoughtful, locally made experiences and gifts that bring people together - from creative workshops to food tours, sound baths, adventure activities, and more. Every Yuup experience is crafted by local hosts, meaning your gift supports real people and their passions.
Explore our festive collection here: browse Christmas gifts →
