I get it. Shopping online is convenient, especially in the busy run-up to Christmas. You don't need to talk to anybody and you can do it in your pyjamas during the ad breaks of Coronation Street. The main argument, though, is that it's cheap. But we need to stop thinking about cost purely in terms of our immediate finances. For example, what does it cost our local area if we only spend our money with multinational corporations who pay relatively little tax and don't have a presence on our nearest high street? I'll take you through some of the reasons why I think it's important to shop local and support small businesses, and I'll tell you about some of my favourite independent places to shop on the high street in Hull.
In 2018, Amazon declared a tax bill of only £4.5m, despite UK revenue from sales reaching $11.3bn although its reported profit in the UK was only £72m as its Amazon UK Services is "only" a logistics business. Amazon reports its UK retail sales through its Luxembourg division, Amazon Europe, and its overall performance in the US as part of a complicated and yet legal setup. We don't know how much profit Amazon made in total from UK retail sales but if we assume an average 12% return and apply a standard UK corporation tax of 19% on that profit, that would come to £258m against the £4.5m that it actually paid. That's over £250m of cash that could be spent on schools, the NHS, prisons and other public services. Instead, we're handing out contracts for Amazon to supply schools with consumables and so Echo devices can ease the burden on the NHS by providing medical advice, therefore Amazon is taking more money from our public services. It's important to point out that the UK government makes these rules and that Amazon is legally complying with them. And it's not just Amazon. Starbucks, Google and even Boots have all reportedly used such corporate structures to manage their taxes.
So what's the alternative? Local independent businesses are more likely to pay their taxes. Yes, they would each pay less individually than the numbers mentioned above but when looked at collectively, it makes a big difference. Plus, if they're on the high street, they also contribute to local business rates which the council can reinvest in local services. They also employ local people and contribute to the overall development of your area. To buy local means you directly contribute to the success of your high street.
Time is obviously a major barrier and we should also see that as a cost. It can seem more convenient to shop online from the comfort of your own home but do we really have no other time in the day? Can we fit in a visit to the high street in our lunch hour? On the way to the bus stop? While the kids are at their gymnastics lesson?
The harsh truth is that we can't really moan about the state of the NHS and schools, or the deterioration of our local high street when we continue to spend our money with multinationals and not by supporting local businesses. That's the true cost.
For the last two years, I've tried to do my Christmas shopping at local independents only. It's not always possible; sometimes you can't find what you need, they may keep more restricted levels of stock or things are just too expensive on the high street. We shouldn't feel guilty about it if it doesn't work out but every little helps. So as a way of encouragement, I'd like to share with you some of my favourite places in Hull to help give you some ideas. The links will take you to each shop's Instagram page so you can see exactly what they're all about.
Fruit Market
19 Point 4 is mainly a fashion boutique, full of men's and women's designer clothing at great prices, but they also sell some fantastic and unique homewares, trinkets and gifts. Plant & Paint not only sells what it says on the tin. You'll also find upcycled furniture and home accessories. Plus, don't forget cheese plants and other greenery are hugely back in fashion. The fantastic Form is your calling point for cards, stationery and artwork, and always has something different to offer. Meanwhile, round the corner at the Store on Pier Street, they have some great gift ideas for any foodies in your family and they'll make up hampers for you with snacks, chocolates and booze, including an array of vegan options. Other shops in the area include Tessie's for women's clothes, Poorboy Boutique for vintage clothes and accessories, and the Oresome Gallery jewellery workshop. Plus when you get peckish, there are plenty of food and drink places to take your fancy.
Trinity Market & Hepworth's Arcade
Since the council spent tonnes on refurbishment, Trinity Market has really come alive and, along with the adjoining arcade, was nominated for the Great British High Street awards this year. In the market, The Eco Shed is ideal for any environmentally minded friends, Vittles & Co will suit any craft beer fans while Cocoa Chocolatier will surely please anyone with a sweet tooth. Over in Hepworth's Arcade, Beasley's is a Hull institution, stocking men's and women's clothes and accessories, plus don't forget to check out the table at the front where you'll find flyers and posters for restaurants, theatres and nights out, tickets for which are more great gift ideas.
Other shops in the arcade include J.E. Books for pre-loved literature and Roisin Dubh for trinkets and homewares, and don't go home without sampling some of the street food on offer back in Trinity Market.
Paragon Arcade
Recently acquired by Allenby and undergoing sensitive restoration, Paragon Arcade is already home to some great places to find gifts. Koda manufactures bespoke furniture while kids' clothes shop Belle & Benjamin offers families something a little bit different. Segal's jewellers is still going strong while Silver Springs boutique will give you some new inspiration. If you need to take the weight off your feet, check out White Rabbit chocolatier, Two Gingers coffee shop, 80 Days Bier Markt or Marla's sandwich place. You'll be spoilt for choice.
I've highlighted three of my favourite areas for independent shopping in Hull city centre but there are plenty of other places up and down the high streets. Let me know where you like to shop in the comments and I wish you luck with your gift hunting.
