It can feel overwhelming to know where to start when trying to buy British – but small, consistent choices really do add up.
Whether it’s a bottle of wine, a new piece of clothing, or hiring a local tradesperson, keeping your spending closer to home has a ripple effect through local and national economies.
When you’re shopping:
- Look out for the Union Jack on packaging – but don’t just stop there.
- Check the small print for where a product was made or grown, not just where it was packaged.
- The Made in Britain mark is a reliable indicator of genuine British manufacturing.
For food and drink specifically – look for these labels:
- Red Tractor
- RSPCA Assured
- Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
If you’re eating out:
- Ask your restaurant or café where they source their ingredients – many are proud to tell you, and your interest encourages others to follow suit.
For services:
- Try to find and recommend local providers first.
- Word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools we have.
- Leave reviews online for local businesses you’ve used and would recommend.
- A five-minute review can be worth thousands of pounds to a small British firm.
Some useful places to start finding British goods and services: