July is Independent Retailer Month, and here at Printed By Us, we’re proud to be part of the incredible indie business community in Sheffield and beyond.
Printing positive change isn’t just about what we create, it’s about how we operate, who we collaborate with, and the values we support. One of those values? Championing independent businesses. Not just because we’re one of them, but because they add so much heart, creativity, and character to our high streets, markets, and communities.
That said, this isn’t about being anti-big brand. It’s just about recognising that where we shop has power, and sometimes the smaller, local option has a lot more going on than meets the eye.
💸 When You Shop Indie, You Support the Economy
One of the best things about independent retailers is that they’re deeply rooted in their local areas. When you buy from them, more of your money stays close to home, going towards supporting local jobs, other small suppliers, and community initiatives.
Research shows that small businesses tend to reinvest more back into their local economy compared to big chains. So even a single purchase can have a ripple effect.
👋 There’s a Face Behind the Name
Independent retailers are run by real people, not head offices. And it shows. Whether it’s a warm hello, help choosing a gift, or remembering your favourite coffee, that personal touch adds a little bit of magic to everyday shopping.
We’ve felt it ourselves, whether it's trading at local markets, working in our Chapel Walk shop, or collaborating with fellow makers, and that connection means a lot.
🎨 It’s Where You Find the Good Stuff
From limited-edition artwork to handmade jewellery to the perfect birthday card you’d never find on the high street. Independent shops are full of surprises!
They often stock things you can’t find anywhere else, sourced or made with care. There’s less of the “same old” and more of the “where did you get that?”
When you buy from an indie shop, chances are you’re supporting a small designer, maker, or artist too. That’s a lot of creativity in one purchase.
🌍 Values Matter
Lots of small businesses, like us, build ethics and sustainability into their everyday decisions. That might mean using recycled materials, cutting plastic, sourcing locally, or paying staff fairly.
At Printed By Us, that means:
- Printing on 100% cotton garments
- Using water-based inks
- Creating products in small batches
- Paying our team the Real Living Wage
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Offering employment opportunities to people overcoming homelessness
Of course, every business is different, but many independents make choices that reflect the values of the people behind them.
❤️ Every Sale Means Something
When you buy from a small shop or stall, it really does mean something. You’re helping someone keep going, keep creating, and keep contributing to their community.
You’re supporting someone’s passion, not just their product. And if you’ve ever run a small business yourself, you’ll know the feeling: every order, every message, every conversation matters.
This Independent Retailer Month...
We’d love you to explore a few independent shops, whether that’s popping into a local maker’s market, choosing to buy from a small online shop, or just spreading the word about your favourites.
Big brands have their place, we all shop from them now and then. But when there’s a chance to support an independent business, that choice can go a long way in helping communities, creativity, and local jobs thrive.
Got a favourite local business you love? Tag them, shout them out, or better yet—pay them a visit.
And if you’re ever in Sheffield, come say hi!
– The Printed By Us Team
