Eight small businesses have been highlighted for providing exceptional services to their customers in Reading.

Small Business Saturday has just passed. The day, which began on the initiative of American Express in the USA, came to the UK in 2012 as a way of highlighting good business practice.

Hundreds of businesses were nominated as part of a competition held by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East.

The winners were revealed on December 2 to coincide with Small Business Saturday.

Mr Rodda said: “I would like to congratulate the winners and to thank all our local small businesses for the contribution that they make to our town.

“My competition received hundreds of nominations, which shows just how well loved our local businesses are.

“Small enterprises are at the centre of our communities and need our support – so, if you can, please keep supporting them throughout the festive period and beyond.”

Businesses were picked from eight categories, with winners including a pub that is nearing its 10th anniversary, a longstanding games shop and a cafe that started out during the pandemic.

You can view the winning businesses in the list below:

Forget me nots florist – Winners in ‘Goods & Services’

This florist in St Peters Road, Earley sells specialist flower bouquets as gifts, for weddings and in moments of sympathy.

Mama’s Way – Winners in ‘Restaurants & Eateries’

Staff at Mamas Way winner of the restaurants and eateries competition held by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East for Small Business Saturday. Credit: Office of Matt Rodda MP

Mama’s Way is a relative newcomer located in Duke Street in the town centre.

The Italian deli serves pizza and pasta to diners and also sells a range of products such as charcuterie, cheese and wines to customers.

Eclectic Games – Winners in ‘Hobbies & Pastimes’

Staff at Eclectic Games in Unions Street, winners of the hobbies and pastimes category in the Small Business Saturday competition held by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East. Credit: Office of Matt Rodda MP

Board and card game shop Eclectic Games won the Hobbies & Pastimes category.

The shop has been a popular place for people to buy gifts and socialise for years in Union Street.

Yoga with Tessa – Winners in ‘Wellbeing & Activities’

Tessa is a Reading based yoga instructor who provides sessions for enthusiasts, pregnant women and yoga classes for mothers and children.

Madoo Italian Deli Cafe – Winners in ‘Cafes and Coffee Shops’

Staff at Madoo Italian deli and café in Duke Street, winners of the cafes and coffee shops category in the Small Business Saturday competition held by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East. Credit: Office of Matt Rodda MP

The Madoo cafe bravely opened in 2020 to sell coffee, hot drinks and baked to customers from its base in Duke Street.

SH Music – Winners in ‘Arts, Crafts & Entertainment’

SH Music based in Katesgrove serves the community by providing a brass and wooden instrument repair service.

Repairs can be booked over the phone or via email on its website.

The business run by Sun Hellerud also provides online and in-person training.

The Greyfriar – Winners in ‘Pubs & Bars’

Staff at The Greyfriar pub in Greyfriars Road, Reading winner of the pubs and bars award competition held by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East for Small Business Saturday. Credit: Office of Matt Rodda MP

The Greyfriar pub near the train station was recognised for its friendly service and wide range of craft beers, lagers and spirits.

The pub is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary next February.

NYLON Hair Artists – Winners in ‘Beauty & Self-Care’

Staff at Nylon Hair Artists in Duke Street, winners of the beauty and self care category in the Small Business Saturday competition held by Matt Rodda, the Labour MP for Reading East. Credit: Office of Matt Rodda MP

Yet another winner in Duke Street, Nylon Hair Artists have been recognised for the professionalism of their service and the care provided to each customer.