How Sheffield Retail Awards nominee, Small Stuff UK, is pivoting around a pandemic

The owner of Small Stuff UK, in Crookes, offered free Sheffield deliveries, gift-wrapping items and adding personal notes to help keep spirits high.

“I was really lucky as my shop already had an online presence, and through a lot of hard work, I’ve been able to grow the shop and brand nationally.

"Like so many independent businesses, I’ve been able to adapt to what the customer needs are, giving as many options as possible - click and collect, local delivery, phone orders and personal shopping times.

“It’s so important for independents that we can keep going and pay our bills, and Sheffield has such a great indie following - so I just know that people will really try to shop with us indie brands where they can.”

Hellen is one of a number of Sheffield retailers who have been nominated or entered for this year’s Sheffield City Centre Retail Awards.

This year, many of those same shops and cafes have been brought to their knees by this pandemic, and that’s why it’s more important than ever that we come together to support our local retailers.

The six award categories, voted for by the public and our experienced judging panel, include awards for Small Retailer, Large Retailer, Outstanding Contribution, Sustainable, Customer Service, and Independent Retailer of the Year.

“Small Stuff was recently awarded The Planet Mark Eden Project certification, which makes my business the only ‘The Planet Mark’ certified children’s store in the U.K,” reveals Helen, whose shop has been nominated in the Sustainable, Outstanding, and Small Retailer categories.

"The shop is eco-conscious, and stocks only the finest ethically-made and traceable toys, gifts, clothing, books and homeware for children aged newborn to six.

“As the business grows, I am able to do even more with the vision of the brand, and for every online order over £20, we offset the business’s carbon footprint by planting a tree via a brilliant company Ecologi.

"The new shop is now powered 100 per cent by renewable electricity, and I continue to work with charity partners – such as Work for Good - to support both local and national charities.”

Hellen also reveals that, since opening her doors 18 months ago, her business has had a huge focus on community and collaboration.

She recently opened up a new larger, two-floor retail shop in Crookes, ten doors up from her original store, where she can offer workshops, events, and a respite space for carers, parents and charities.

She added: “This means that, even during these topsy turvy times, these important community collaborations can continue.

"I absolutely love to work closely with the community and other local businesses to support and drive footfall to the area of Crookes, and I’m so passionate about independent retail - I believe it is what keeps our high street vibrant and exciting.”

Closing dates for nominations for this year’s awards – hosted by The Star, in partnership with Sheffield Bid, and Heart of the City II – is midnight on Sunday November 8, and nominations are open to business owners, staff members and customers.

Visit HERE for details, and to nominate.