Hello, You! With the holiday season just around the corner, we often think about shopping at big-box stores or online marketplaces for our gifts. However, we should not forget the small businesses in our local communities that offer unique and memorable products. This is where Small Business Saturday comes in – a day dedicated to supporting local businesses and encouraging people to shop small. In this article, we will discuss the history of Small Business Saturday, its impact on local economies, and how you can participate and show your support.
What is Small Business Saturday?
Small Business Saturday is an annual event that takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It was first observed in 2010 by American Express to promote small businesses during the holiday shopping season. The day has since grown in popularity and has become a nationwide movement with communities, businesses, and organizations participating in various ways. Small Business Saturday may be a one-day event, but its impact extends far beyond that.
Why is Small Business Saturday important?
Small businesses are the backbone of local communities, and they play a significant role in the economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9% of all businesses in the United States and employ nearly half of the private workforce. They also provide unique products and services that cannot be found in large retail chains, contributing to the diversity of the marketplace. However, small businesses often face challenges in competing with big-box stores and online retailers. Small Business Saturday provides an opportunity for these businesses to showcase their offerings and gain exposure to new customers.
How can you support Small Business Saturday?
There are many ways to support Small Business Saturday and show your appreciation for local businesses. Here are some ideas:
1. Shop at local businesses
Visit your local shops and restaurants on Small Business Saturday and throughout the year. Consider purchasing gifts for your loved ones from small retailers instead of big-box stores or online retailers. By doing so, you are not only contributing to the local economy but also helping to preserve the character and uniqueness of your community.
2. Spread the word
Tell your friends and family about Small Business Saturday and encourage them to shop small. Share your experiences on social media using the hashtag #ShopSmall to help raise awareness about the day and the importance of supporting small businesses.
3. Volunteer your time
Many small businesses may need extra help during the busy holiday season. Offer to volunteer your time to help with tasks such as wrapping gifts, stocking shelves, or assisting customers. Your support can go a long way in helping these businesses thrive.
4. Participate in local events
Many communities host events on Small Business Saturday to promote local businesses. Attend these events to show your support and enjoy the festivities. You may also discover new businesses and meet other members of your community.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When is Small Business Saturday? | Small Business Saturday is observed on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States, which falls on November 27 in 2021. |
| Who started Small Business Saturday? | Small Business Saturday was started by American Express in 2010 to promote shopping at small businesses during the holiday season. |
| Why is it important to shop at small businesses? | Shopping at small businesses supports the local economy, preserves the character of the community, and provides unique products and services that cannot be found in large retail chains. |
| How can I participate in Small Business Saturday? | You can participate in Small Business Saturday by shopping at local businesses, spreading the word, volunteering your time, and attending local events. |
The Bottom Line
Small Business Saturday is more than just a shopping day – it is an opportunity to support the local businesses that make our communities unique and vibrant. By shopping small, we can contribute to the local economy and show our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of small business owners. We hope this article has inspired you to participate in Small Business Saturday and make a difference in your community. See you back in other interesting articles!
