Why You Should Support Small UK Businesses, Like Barkley & Fetch, This November

Why You Should Support Small UK Businesses, Like Barkley & Fetch, This November

November is known for Black Friday deals, online shopping frenzies, and big-brand promotions. But while large retailers compete on price, there’s something far more meaningful happening within the UK small-business community—especially among makers who handcraft their products with care.

At Barkley & Fetch, every dog collar, harness, lead, and accessory is designed, stitched, and finished by hand here in the UK. And during Black Friday season, supporting small businesses like ours matters more than ever.

Whether you’re shopping for your dog or looking for special gifts for pet lovers this winter, here’s why choosing handmade dog accessories from UK makers is such a powerful choice.


Person working on a sewing machine with spools of thread in the background in the Barkley and Fetch sewing room

1. You Support Real UK Makers, Not Mass-Market Manufacturing

Buying from a small business means supporting real people—not factories or corporations.
Every time you choose a handmade dog collar, hand-sewn dog bandana, or UK-made pet accessory, you’re helping an independent maker continue their craft.

For Barkley & Fetch, every order directly supports our small team, and our commitment to UK craftsmanship.


2. Handmade Dog Accessories Offer Higher Quality and Comfort

During Black Friday, many mass-produced pet products are created with the cheapest materials possible.
But handmade UK products are different.

Plaid bow tie and collar set on a white background

At Barkley & Fetch, every dog collar, harness, and lead is:

  • crafted by hand

  • made with durable, pet-safe materials

  • designed for comfort, safety, and long-lasting quality

Instead of choosing disposable deals, you’re investing in accessories that truly last—perfect for dogs who deserve the best.


3. Safer, More Ethical, and More Sustainable Pet Products

Small UK businesses often use more ethical production methods than larg

e retailers.

Barkley & Fetch prioritises:

  • responsible sourcing

  • low-waste production

  • quality over quantity

  • handmade manufacturing rather than mass production

Your purchase supports eco-friendly choices and reduces the environmental impact compared to fast-fashion pet products.


4. Unique Gifts for Dogs and Pet Owners

November marks the start of Christmas gift shopping, and nothing beats a thoughtful, handmade item.

Plaid bag with a black strap on a white background HANDMADE IN UK BY BARKLEY AND FETCH

Our festive favourites include:

  • Hand-sewn dog bandanas

  • Handcrafted dog collars

  • Made-to-order dog harnesses

  • Match-your-pet accessories

  • Handmade Christmas dog gifts

These items feel meaningful, unique, and crafted with care—something big-box stores simply can’t offer.


5. You Help Keep UK Craftsmanship Alive

Supporting small UK makers ensures traditional crafting skills stay strong.
Businesses like Barkley & Fetch rely on customers who appreciate quality, creativity, and handmade design.

Every purchase helps local and UK-based artisans continue creating dog accessories that are beautifully made—not mass-produced.


6. Better Fit, Better Style, Better Comfort

Handmade pet accessories offer something big retailers can’t: thoughtful design with a focus on comfort and fit.
Because we handcraft every product, we take time to ensure each piece feels great for your dog and looks fantastic too.

Whether it’s a soft dog harness for daily walks or a stylish collar for the festive season, handmade accessories have a special touch you can’t find in mass-market items.


7. You’re Putting Money Back Into the UK Economy

When you support Barkley & Fetch, your money stays in the UK.

It helps sustain:

  • independent makers

  • local suppliers

  • UK material producers

  • small creative businesses

It’s an investment in local talent and community, not overseas production.


Make Your November Shop With Purpose

This Black Friday season, choosing to support UK makers—especially those handcrafting their products—makes a real difference.

When you buy from Barkley & Fetch, you’re choosing:

✨ Handmade quality
✨ UK craftsmanship
✨ Ethical and sustainable production
✨ Unique, artisan pet accessories
✨ Real people behind every product

Your support helps small businesses grow, thrive, and continue creating the products you love for your pets.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.