As the countdown continues to the main event this Thursday, former Dragons' Den star and current Robert Dyas owner Theo Paphitis has voiced his support of the 2013 Independents' Day campaign.
"I am supporting this year's Independents' Day campaign," said Mr Paphitis, "as I believe that independent businesses have a vital role to play in our economy. This campaign celebrates the drive, commitment, enthusiasm and passion that most small retailers possess, and need, to make it in retail, as well as the contribution they make to local communities.

"Through the campaign, support is available to these small businesses to help them be the best they can be. I would urge independent retailers to take advantage of the support that is on offer to them through the National Skills Academy for Retail."

July 4 will see retailers and towns up and down the UK celebrating the many and varied independent retailers across the country. The aim is to raise awareness of the contribution independents make to the local economy, and members of the public will be encouraged to buy at least one item from them during the day.

Special events and promotions will take place in several retail outlets, from themed window displays to high street festivities. The day is organised by the National Skills Academy for Retail, which has arranged for funding available to independent retailers with fewer than 250 employees to access training and mentoring.

Head of the National Skills Academy for Retail Jane Rexworthy said: "People are passionate about their local shops and appreciate the contribution they make to a town's personality. But we all need to make sure we use them and show support for these businesses. Independents' Day is an exciting way to showcase the variety of independent retailers and traders in the UK, and get the British public spending in them."

This year the campaign has joined forces with Independent Retailer Month, and also has the support of 13 trade associations including Bira and the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association.