Newcastle’s Small Business Champion 2015 winner announced as ‘Fine Fish’ of Benwell

Winning independent retailer, ‘Fine Fish’, is a local produce shop in Benwell which sells a selection of fresh fruit, vegetables and fresh fish freshly sourced from Newcastle’s Quayside. Newcastle City Council  had been asking city shoppers to nominate their local high street heroes, as part of a joint campaign with the Federation of Small Businesses, to raise awareness in the importance of shopping locally. The public put forward their favourite indie retailers in early November, which were then shortlisted to the top seven - varying from fishmongers and gift shops to patisseries and cafes. Cabinet Member for Investment and Development, Councillor Ged Bell, said: “This is exactly the kind of response we hoped to receive, as Newcastle is home to many thriving and innovative independent retailers – all of which can offer customers a unique and personalised shopping experience.” “I would like to say a big well done to Fine Fish, who go above and beyond for the people of Newcastle while remaining at the heart of community life in Benwell.” The shortlist included winners Fine Fish; and finalists The Glamorous Owl, Quilliam Brothers Teahouse, The French Oven, Whosit & Whatsit, Ouseburn Coffee Co. and The Pie Shop. Small Business Saturday takes place this weekend on 5 December - the busiest shopping day on the year - when people are encouraged to shop local and use small independent traders as part of a nationwide awareness campaign.  Last year saw 16.5m shoppers show their support nationally.