Newcastle City Council has once again shone a spotlight on the city’s thriving small business community with the return of The People’s Choice Awards. The event, held as part of the nationwide Small Business Saturday, recognised the outstanding contributions of local enterprises with trophies presented by the Lord Mayor and the Cabinet Member for Economy, Jobs and Skills at Newcastle City Council.
Now in its fifth year, the event forms part of the national Small Business Saturday campaign, which promotes the UK’s 5.5 million small businesses, representing 99.8% of the country’s business population. Locally, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) account for 98% of Newcastle’s business landscape.
The awards were based on weeks of public voting which opened on Monday, 4th November, and closed on Sunday, 24th November, with thousands of residents showing their appreciation for the businesses that play a vital role in the city’s economy and community.
One business, Sheraz’s Westerhope Convenience Store, stood out by taking home three trophies, including Newcastle’s Favourite Small Business 2024.
Councillor Dan Greenhough, Cabinet Member for Economy, Jobs and Skills, said:
“The People’s Choice Awards have become a local tradition, celebrating the small businesses that play a vital role in our economy. Every year, more people get involved, showing their support for the incredible work these businesses do in our communities. These awards are a wonderful way to recognise their hard work and the important role they play in making Newcastle such a vibrant and welcoming city. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees — your efforts do not go unnoticed.”
He continued:
"As we approach Small Business Saturday on 7th December, I want to encourage everyone to get out and show their support for our incredible local businesses, not just on the day but every day. They are the lifeblood of our local economy, providing jobs, unique services, and a sense of community that makes Newcastle a fantastic place to live and work.”
The awards precede Small Business Saturday on 7th December, a day dedicated to encouraging consumers to support local businesses. In 2023, the campaign saw consumers spend £1 billion with small businesses on the day, highlighting their importance to both local economies and the wider UK.
Winners and Runners-Up
Favourite Small Retail Business
- Winner: Sheraz’s Westerhope Convenience Store
- Runner-Up: Grate
Favourite Small Food & Hospitality Business
- Winner: Crackers 4 Cheese
- Runner-Up: Busty Bakery
Favourite Small Ethical and Environmentally Conscious Business
- Winner: Hot Wax Newcastle
- Runner-Up: The Dog Grocer
Favourite Small Cultural Creative Business
- Winner: Cock a Snook Tattoo Parlour
- Runner-Up: Flamingo Heights Podcasting Studio
Favourite Small Community Champion Business
- Winner: Sheraz’s Westerhope Convenience Store
- Runner-Up: Mochii
Overall Winner:
- Newcastle’s Favourite Small Business 2024: Sheraz’s Westerhope Convenience Store