Discovering the Importance of Small Business Saturday: 3 Facts You Need to Know
As the holiday shopping season approaches, big sale events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday quickly come to mind. However, in recent years, another event has been gaining traction among consumers and small business owners alike: Small Business Saturday. This American shopping holiday, which falls on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is a dedicated day for supporting and promoting local small businesses. Here are three important facts you need to know about Small Business Saturday.
1. Small Business Saturday Has a Big Impact on Local Communities
In today’s economy, small businesses need all the support they can get. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) reports that small businesses account for 99.9% of all businesses in the United States and employ nearly half of all American workers. When you shop at a small business, you’re not just buying a product or service – you’re supporting the local economy, creating jobs, and helping to build your community.
Small Business Saturday was started by American Express in 2010 to raise awareness of the importance of small businesses and boost their sales during the holiday season. Since then, the event has grown in popularity and has become a significant economic driver for small businesses across the country. According to the same NFIB study, small business owners reported earning an estimated $19.6 billion on Small Business Saturday in 2020, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. Small Business Saturday Offers Unique Products and Services
One of the biggest advantages of shopping at small businesses is the diversity of products and services they offer. Small business owners are often passionate about what they do and can provide personalized, high-quality offerings that you won’t find at big-box retailers. From artisanal foods to handmade crafts, small businesses offer a unique and authentic shopping experience that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
In addition, small businesses often prioritize sustainability, ethical sourcing, and community involvement in their operations, making them a great choice for socially conscious consumers. By shopping at small businesses, you can support environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices while also discovering new and exciting products.
3. Small Business Saturday Encourages Local Connections and Community Building
One of the benefits of shopping at small businesses is the sense of community that comes with it. When you shop at a local store, you’re not just a faceless customer – you’re a member of the community. Small business owners often know their customers by name and take the time to build relationships with them, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
Small Business Saturday takes this community building to the next level by encouraging local events and collaborations between businesses. Many small towns and neighborhoods organize Small Business Saturday events featuring live music, food festivals, and other activities to draw in shoppers and showcase their local businesses. By participating in these events, you can feel a sense of pride in your community while supporting its economic growth.
Conclusion
Small Business Saturday is an important event for supporting local businesses, promoting community building, and discovering unique and socially responsible products and services. By choosing to shop at small businesses, you can make a positive impact on your community and support the values that matter to you. So, this holiday season, don’t forget to shop small and make a big difference.
