Small firms are growing in Braintree according to the volunteer-run Town Team.

A mixture of large and small businesses is important to provide shoppers with an enjoyable experience, and Braintree is no different.

Brenda Baker, manager of George Yard Shopping Centre, said: “Variety is the spice of life, and small businesses add the spice of variety to our standard high street stores.

“It is important to have a mix of large and small businesses to give shoppers extra choice.

“Small businesses are what makes the shopping trip interesting.”

Liz Storey, chairman of the Braintree Town Team, added: “We have some fantastic small businesses, from retailers to milkshake bars and tea rooms, and salons too.

“Braintree is very diverse, we are quite unique and we have a huge amount here which people don’t always seem to realise.

“Events such as Small Business Saturday get the word out there and help companies be sustainable long-term.”

Parking deals are also designed to draw in the shoppers, including a 10p after 3pm offer or for 3pm-7pm in short-stay car parks at a number of locations.

For more details and offers visit the Town Team website at www.shoppingbraintree.co.uk.