The historic halls of the House of Lords came alive with colour, energy and entrepreneurial pride on Tuesday as the founder of AYT Foods, Temitope Ajayi-Salami joined hundreds of small business owners for a special reception ahead of this weekend’s highly anticipated Small Business Saturday.
Held annually to celebrate the backbone of the UK economy, the campaign returns on 6th December with a renewed call for communities to show love, support and spending power for their favourite small businesses. This year, AYT Foods takes centre stage as part of the prestigious SmallBiz100, a curated list spotlighting 100 exceptional small businesses across the country.
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The Westminster event, hosted by Small Business Saturday in partnership with founding supporter American Express, shone a deserving spotlight on AYT Foods and its inspiring journey from a modest community store to a celebrated African and Caribbean food brand known across Scotland. The recognition comes at a time when new joint research from Small Business Saturday UK and American Express reveals just how deeply small businesses resonate with the public. Fifty-eight percent of Brits say they have a favourite small business while an impressive ninety-five percent believe these enterprises enrich their local areas.
For Temitope Ajayi-Salami, the evening was a moment of pride and reflection.
“Being recognised in this way is truly humbling,” she shared. “AYT Foods was built on faith, determination and a genuine desire to serve our community. Every milestone is a reminder that our story matters and that our culture and flavours deserve a place on every table.”
From its roots as a community-focused grocery to becoming a multi award-winning brand, AYT Foods has consistently expanded its impact. The company’s growth includes the establishment of TMAS Community CIC, an initiative committed to empowering families and fostering inclusion through food and culture. Along the way, AYT Foods has earned national accolades from the UK StartUp Awards, Small Business Awards and the Prestige Awards, milestones that further cement their place among the UK’s standout SMEs.
Tuesday’s reception brought together entrepreneurs, MPs from across party lines and the Small Business Minister, Blair McDougall MP, who applauded the vital role small businesses play in job creation and community development.
Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK, echoed this sentiment.
“Small businesses like AYT Foods create incredible value in their communities and, as the research shows, are among the nation’s favourites. It is so important we get behind our small businesses because public support can make all the difference.”
Small Business Saturday, that is originally sponsored by American Express in the United States, has grown into the UK’s most successful SME campaign, engaging millions and driving billions of pounds in spending. From independent retailers and eateries to professional service providers, businesses nationwide will be marking the day with promotions, special events and collaborative activities.
American Express’ UK Merchant Services General Manager, Dan Edelman, captured the heart of the campaign.
“Behind every small business is a person, a dreamer, a doer and someone devoted to serving their community. The public values them deeply and Amex is proud to support them.”
AYT Foods is stepping into the celebration with the same community spirit that defines its brand. This weekend, customers visiting their store will enjoy a lively Spin the Wheel experience as part of the company’s second-year anniversary festivities. There will be exciting rewards, festive vibes and exclusive glimpses into the company’s next chapter.
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That next chapter includes something especially exciting: the upcoming launch of a brand new African and Caribbean restaurant in Dunfermline, marking another bold step in AYT Foods’ mission to bring authentic flavours to more homes and hearts.
As the nation prepares for Small Business Saturday, AYT Foods stands tall as a shining example of ambition, cultural pride and community-driven growth, a story that continues to capture the admiration of customers, policymakers and fellow entrepreneurs.
