A Margate shop owner has had the opportunity to promote the needs of Thanet’s small businesses to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, thanks to an invitation from Polly.
Polly and Katy Lassen, the owner of Harbour & Tide in Margate, attended a reception for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the South East held in Number 11 Downing Street on 11 November.
Harbour & Tide is a shop selling sustainable gifts and beach accessories located on Margate seafront.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, was delighted to welcome a variety of businesses from across the region into Downing Street. The reception was an opportunity for Katy and other SME owners and employees from across the South East to speak directly to the Chancellor ahead of the upcoming autumn budget.
Speaking after the event, Polly said she was determined to put the prosperity of coastal communities at the heart of the government’s economic agenda.
Polly Billington said:
“Harbour & Tide is a fantastic seaside business in Margate, where SMEs are the backbone of our local economy. I was delighted to welcome Katy to Downing Street as I continue my campaign to put coastal prosperity at the heart of Labour’s plans for national renewal.”
Katy Lassen, owner of Harbour & Tide in Margate, said:
“If you had told me 5 years ago that I would quit my career in fashion, open a sea swimming inspired beach shop and end up visiting Downing Street to represent small businesses I wouldn’t have believed you! It was an honour to be there representing East Thanet and all the incredible independent businesses we have here.”
“I want to thank Polly for the invitation and for being proactive in engaging with the small business community in Thanet and for her enthusiasm to make change happen. Rest assured myself and my fellow business owners lobbied Rachel Reeves and our MPs, ensuring they know what needs to be done to support small businesses like ours.”
Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, said:
“We are a pro-business government, and we know that SMEs are the beating heart of high streets, industrial estates, and local economies across the country.
“That’s why we’re reforming business rates, have secured trade deals with the US, EU and India to boost exports of whisky, gin and other British products, and have seen interest rates cut five times since the election, benefiting businesses in every part of Britain.”