The first Saturday of December marks Small Business Saturday, which encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. This year it falls on the 2nd December.

We’ve asked some of our students to share their favourite independent businesses in Loughborough, so why not try one of their recommendations this weekend?

Charlotte, English and Drama

Recommends Dolcino

“A little Italian gelateria that has so many amazing desserts to choose from! The crepes especially are soooo good and the ice cream comes in so many interesting and mouth-watering flavours. Perfect place to go and treat yourself over Christmas when you’ve had enough of shopping.”

Daniel, Mechanical Engineering

Recommends Plan Burrito

“A Mexican gem in the heart of Loughborough. With two locations in the town centre – and delivery also available – there’s no excuse not to get your Mexican fix! My first burrito experience came courtesy of Plan Burrito, and its an experience I’ll never forget! The service is always second-to-none, and with food and prices to match, its a perfect choice for (almost) any meal time.”

Julia, Politics and Business

Recommends Cafe Acacia

“This cafe is special to me as it is the place I go to for breakfast or lunch when my family or boyfriend come to visit me at uni. It’s a really small cute cafe with a great selection of food!”

Selma, Physics and Mathematics

Recommends Cocoa

“A cosy dessert bar that has delicious desserts at reasonable prices! I like to visit when I’m craving something sweet and it’s a good way to spend time with friends too. It’s also open till 11pm everyday, so it’s a nice thing to do in the evening. If you haven’t been yet, I would personally recommend the white chocolate chip cookie dough! (Or anything that has the word waffle in it) #treatyoself”

Ben, MSc Business Analytics Consulting

Recommends Dolcino

“Dolcino is a really fantastic local business. It’s right in the centre of town in a great location to meet up with friends and enjoy one of their desserts including crepes, waffles and gelato shakes. The atmosphere is warm and friendly and their coffee is great too!”

Becky, Sport and Exercise Science

Recommends MG Hair

“The hairdressers are always extremely friendly, welcoming and bubbly (which is great when you’re spending half a day in there!) They do a fantastic job in making you feel relaxed – especially as changing hairdressers can be stressful!”

Samantha, MSc Exercise Physiology

Recommends Bom Bom Patisserie

“This bespoke little café is my favourite place to have a catch up with friends with a cookie… or two! The desserts are absolutely incredible and the staff are super friendly, a must for any Loughborough student with a sweet tooth.”

Loughborough is home to a mix of eclectic boutiques, cafés, gift shops and eateries as well as a twice-weekly market, which was recently crowned best large outdoor market at the British Market of the Year Awards. To find out more about small businesses in Loughborough, visit the Love Loughborough website.