Let’s be honest, it’s a tough time to be a small business owner right now.
Rising utility bills, increased staff costs and shrinking footfall are just three of the challenges businesses are having to contend with currently.
We often hear of the struggles facing business owners, but it’s just important to shout about those where things are going well.
Across Peterborough are dozens of small businesses defeating the odds by serving the local community with great success.
From jewellers to bakers, many of these local businesses have served the city for generations and hold a special place in the heart of Peterborians.
We recently asked readers on our Facebook page to nominate their favourite local independent businesses; the places that make the city what it is.
After receiving nearly 200 responses, it’s fair to say that readers felt pretty strongly about this one.
All the businesses mentioned by readers are special in their own right, but we wanted to shine a light on those mentioned most often.
Here are Peterborough’s 10 favourite independent businesses - according to you, our readers:
1. Peter's Traditional Bakery - 120 High Street, Fletton
A recent customer told Google reviews: "Proper good old fashioned bakery. Friendly staff great prices and a delicious Cornish pasty. Lots of sweet treats on display too." Photo: Peter's Traditional Bakery
2. The Pasta Shop - 15 Queens Walk, Fletton
A recent customer told Google reviews: "Lovely little shop with very helpful friendly staff. Bought some pizza dough and hot salami to make my own pizza and hubby said it was the best he's ever had." Photo: Google
3. Up The Garden Bath - UNITY - Ground Floor, Queensgate Shopping Centre
A recent customer told Google reviews: "Lovely products, a great community supporting shop and the staff are super friendly and helpful." Photo: Google
4. Style - Westgate Arcade, Queensgate Shopping Centre
A recent customer told Google reviews: "I can’t recommend this jewellery shop enough! I’ve bought various accessories from here over the years and every single item has been such high quality at a fair price. The staff are always so friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable, and they create such a lovely atmosphere whenever you visit." Photo: Style