Since 2010, American Express has joined the nations small, independent businesses to make a statement on the importance of supporting the local businesses that in turn support the local economy. Seventy-seven percent of consumers said Small Business Saturday® inspires them to “Shop Small” throughout the year and not just for the holidays. Now in its sixth year, the upcoming Small Business Saturday will take place on November 28.
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Read the full story in Wednesday’s edition of The Spirit.
Frequently, it is the small retail person who is active in fundraising for local charities, advocating for improvements, for fire and rescue service, for local schools and in organizing holiday events.
“Despite the challenges that still exist in our economy, it looks as if consumers are eager to celebrate the holidays with friends and family this year”, NRF CEO Matthew Shay said in a statement.
Clark says small businesses will continue catering to their fellow community members, in the hopes that their efforts are recognized not just on Small Business Saturday but every day.
Trimble, whose gift and stationery store is participating in its fifth Small Business Saturday this weekend, said although the message to shop small has been heard, “I would argue it’s getting more important to promote it. I think it needs to be a constant reminder”.
“Anything that brings people to downtown to see what’s new and to enjoy the shops and restaurants can only help small businesses”, Chumley said. Two additional gift baskets will also be awarded – each basket will be stuffed with Downtown Dollars to be used at any one of 150+ Downtown Bend businesses. Small Business Saturday is a registered trademark of American Express. Local businesses in your community are more likely to employ residents of your town.
47 ABC spoke with Salisbury Mayor Jake Day today who tells us shopping small and shopping local is very important to the downtown development.
“We have banners and brochures and I know many stores are planning big specials”, she said.
John Clark with Skinny Raven Sports says it’s usually the big businesses that get all the love on Black Friday.
In Northfield many shoppers already shop with their own bags, swag owner Mary Closner said. Perhaps you provide a coupon to your patrons that’s good for a discount at your neighbor’s shop and vice versa.
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Shopping locally can also act as an investment in the community because the money spent at local businesses stays in the community through local taxes and those small businesses often serve as sponsors for events or donate money to organizations.
