SMALLER businesses at a shopping centre are helping to fly the flag for independent stores.

The outlets at Stretford Mall are backing the UK Independents Day campaign Saturday to help local businesses to prosper and grow..

They say small businesses can offer great customer service, unique finds, investment in new technology and a better chance to negotiate discounts.

Research for the Federation of Small Businesses shows that of every £1 spent, up to 70p circulates back into the local economy, flowing from traders to suppliers and the people they depend on to run their companies.

Nigel Young, 45, opened Reel around the Fountain record store at Stretford Mall and said the public need to support smaller independent traders.

He said: “I’ve been collecting records since I was seven and used to trade on eBay but decided to expand and run a shop. Vinyl is increasingly popular again and some of the bigger stores are starting to get back into vinyl in a big way."

Business partners, Adele Flynn, 44, and Enith Williams, 58, have both worked as hair stylists in Stretford Mall for more than 28 years.

They bought their business Short Cut hairdressing salon almost a decade ago from their previous employer and haven’t looked back.

Adele said: “We love it and have a lot of regular customers. We employ a beautician and have a couple of youngsters who work part-time washing hair at weekends.

“I feel we are able to give better customer service e as it’s our business. We know our customers and are able to relate to them. Some have been coming here for years.”

“We just need people to support independent traders."

Nick Corlett, 33, has The Tanning Lounge, in Stretford Mall and also urged the public to support independent traders.

He said: “I’m right behind Independents’ Day, it’s a great idea and showcases what we as retailers do."

Organised by the National Skills Academy for Retail and People 1st and now in its fifth year, the campaign celebrates the contribution independent businesses make to the UK.