As Thanksgiving is over, Christmas celebrators prepare for “the most wonderful time of the year.” So, according to capitalistic America, that means it’s time to get shopping and spending.
Black Friday shopping is mostly associated with retail giants. Larger retail businesses like Walmart, Target, Macy’s, etc. can afford to go without big sales year-round, so when Black Friday sales, specials, and deals come around, there is major hype.
Although the department sales typically last throughout the weekend and start up again on cyber Monday, there’s one sales date that Americans tend to undermine: Small Business Saturday. The shop small campaign is about shoppers devoting an entire day to buying from local businesses instead of putting all of their Christmas gift money into retail giants. Instead of sending money into CEO’s pockets, the community can directly benefit from the economic boost of local shoppers with this campaign.
The Shop Small campaign that honors Small Business Saturday is endorsed by American Express, who pledge benefits to their members who participate in buying locally. Doing business locally not only supports the community but, more importantly, community members such as small business owners who are trying to make a living while competing with retail giants.
It’s not too much to ask to give small businesses some appreciation one day out of the year! Search online for some local boutiques, bakeries, and specialty shops downtown and you might be surprised by what is available. Some small boutiques also have online stores so there’s even the possibility of online shopping and participating from home! Happy Small Business Saturday!
