Chloe SmithMP for Norwich North
Chloe SmithThe All Party Parliamentary Small Shops Group invited Members of Parliament to nominate a shop in their constituency to be considered in the Group's competition to find the best small shop in the country.
Today a reception took place in Parliament to name the winners and celebrate success stories. Chloe Smith MP nominated John Howell who runs J. T Howell Newsagents to represent Norwich North and the shop has received a certificate of merit.
Whilst there can be no doubt that supermarkets, though their might in terms of purchasing power, can often offer goods at a lower price than a small shop, they find it difficult to compete in terms of quality and the very personal service that small shops are able to provide for their customers.
Commenting on the awards Chloe Smith said:
"Newsagents and small shops are pillars of the community in Norwich. I was very happy to support the nomination of Mr Howell's shop when the NFRN came to me - I'm often in there buying my own milk and papers anyway! I am pleased that the award gives us a chance to support good community shops in general."
John Howell, who is also Chairman of IDEAL Purchasing Services based in Norwich, said:
"I am very pleased that our efforts to provide services in the Carron area are recognised. I was delighted to be nominated. It is good that small shops are supported by politicians, and I'd like to thank Chloe Smith for supporting my nomination as the local MP."