Support Local This Small Business Saturday
Today is Small Business Saturday and the start of the holiday shopping season, it is an important time to reflect on where we spend our dollars and the impact of those choices. When planning your Christmas shopping, please consider the value of supporting local businesses. Shopping locally is not only about finding unique gifts, but also about investing in the long-term strength of our communities.
Why Shop Local This Holiday Season
Small businesses play a vital role in the U.S. economy. There are approximately 33.2 million small businesses across the country, representing 99% of all U.S. businesses. Since Small Business Saturday began in 2010, consumers have reported spending roughly $201 billion with small businesses on that day alone.
When you shop local, approximately 68 cents of every dollar stays within your community, supporting schools, parks, public services, and local jobs. In recent surveys, 53% of Americans said they plan to participate in Small Business Saturday, and 76% indicated they will purchase holiday gifts from small businesses this year.
Considering Cost and Convenience
It can be tempting to rely on big-box stores or online retailers for convenience, predictable inventory, and competitive pricing. However, these purchases often send a large portion of spending out of the local economy.
Local small businesses are more likely to hire local residents, partner with nearby suppliers, and reinvest profits in their communities. Although shopping small may take a little more time or cost slightly more, it contributes to stronger local economies and a more personal shopping experience.
How to Support Local Businesses
- Mark your calendar for Small Business Saturday and plan to visit a few local retailers or artisans.
- Be intentional about your holiday purchases by exploring independent shops first.
- When considering a purchase from a major retailer, pause and ask if a local business might offer something similar.
- Share your experience using the hashtag #ShopSmall to help raise awareness.
References
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Everything You Need to Know About Small Business Saturday. uschamber.com
- U.S. Small Business Administration. Small Business Saturday Overview. sba.gov
- American Express. Shop Small Impact Data. americanexpress.com
- LendingTree. Small Business Saturday Expectations Survey. lendingtree.com
- MyZing. 8 Reasons to Shop Local on Small Business Saturday. myzing.com
