It is Small Business Saturday and we are being encouraged to spend our money locally this festive season.

The idea started in America in 2010 and has since spread across the world.

For every €1 spent in a local store, it is estimated it is worth around €4 to the local economy.

Retail Excellence Ireland says the aim is to "sensitise consumers" to the benefit of supporting small businesses in their local area.

The day itself takes place on the first shopping Saturday in December each year.

These shoppers in Dublin city say shopping local is an important factor.

The head of Retail Excellence Ireland, Sean Murphy, explains.

And Una is owner and designer of Allicano in Dublin. She says it makes a big difference to businesses like hers.