Why Small Business Saturday Is More Important Than Ever This Year?
Small Business Saturday is an annual event that takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It is a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting small businesses. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses have faced unprecedented challenges, making Small Business Saturday more important than ever. In this article, we will explore why Small Business Saturday is crucial for small businesses this year and how consumers can support them.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Small Businesses
The COVID-19 pandemic has hit small businesses hard. Many have been forced to close their doors temporarily or permanently due to the economic fallout of the pandemic. According to a survey by Main Street America, as of August 2020, 60% of small businesses had closed their doors temporarily, and the remaining 40% were unsure if they could remain open for another six months.
The pandemic has also changed the way we shop. As consumers have shifted towards online shopping, small businesses have struggled to adapt to the digital marketplace. A survey by Visa found that four in ten small businesses have shifted their focus to e-commerce to stay afloat.
How Small Business Saturday Can Help
Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to shop at local businesses, providing small businesses with much-needed revenue during the holiday season. According to American Express, the founder of Small Business Saturday, consumers who shopped small on Small Business Saturday spent a reported $19.6 billion in 2019. This revenue boost can be especially important for small businesses who have been struggling due to the pandemic.
Shopping small also has other benefits. Small businesses often provide unique products or services that are not available at larger retailers. By supporting small businesses, you are supporting the local economy and contributing to the creation of jobs in your community.
How Consumers Can Support Small Businesses
This Small Business Saturday, there are many ways you can support small businesses in your community. One way is to shop at small businesses both online and in-person. Many small businesses are offering curbside pickup or delivery, making it easy to support local businesses while still practicing social distancing.
Another way to support small businesses is to recommend them to others. Spread the word about your favorite local businesses on social media, leave positive reviews, or recommend them to friends and family. Word of mouth is a powerful tool, and by sharing your positive experiences with small businesses, you can help them reach new customers.
Conclusion
Small Business Saturday is more important than ever this year. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for small businesses to stay afloat, but by shopping small on Small Business Saturday, you can help support your local economy and contribute to the creation of jobs in your community. This year, consider shopping local and supporting the small businesses in your area. Together, we can help small businesses thrive during these challenging times.
