a day ago
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
Shopping small delivers big rewards
Sydney's eclectic spread of small businesses offer everything from great events to super shopping and culinary experiences. We've wrapped up a few of our favourite local spots to enjoy across Sydney.
If you're looking for something a bit different to do, Silky Shapes Studio runs whimsical pottery workshops — everything from one-off beginner classes to ceramics workshops. The classes are great for corporate team-building events or special occasions like hen's parties and birthdays.
Once you're done spinning the pottery wheel, grab a bite at Red Lantern, an iconic Vietnamese restaurant located just minutes from Sydney's CBD, which has been captivating diners since 2002. Renowned as one of the best modern Vietnamese establishments globally, it boasts a sophisticated Indochine charm within a beautifully designed space.
The team elevates traditional Vietnamese flavours using fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant also features a unique private dining room, perfect for special occasions.
'Whether it's your local barista taking the time to have a conversation, the pharmacist who delivers medicine to your door when you're sick or that small business that provides financial support for your children's sports club, small businesses help keep our communities running,' says Robert Tedesco, vice president and general manager of global merchant and network services for American Express (Amex) Australia and New Zealand.
Indeed, Australia's small businesses are the bedrock of our economy and communities.
According to the federal government's National Small Business Strategy released earlier this year, small businesses make up an incredible 97 per cent of all businesses across Australia — contributing up to $590 billion to the economy annually and providing jobs for roughly 5.4 million people.
But beyond the economic metrics are the immeasurable contributions small businesses make to their communities. Tedesco explains: 'Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities and Amex recognises the tireless work they perform to deliver essential services and support the human connections that keep our high streets thriving.'
Both Red Lantern and Silky Shapes Studio are both part of Amex's Shop Small initiative, which encourages its Card Members in Australia and New Zealand to spend locally. And once a year, Shop Small Month aims to boost awareness of and support for participating small businesses by offering both them and their customers additional benefits and rewards¹.
