What is Small Business Saturday?

By Andrew Jacobs
Nov 22, 2013

What is Small Business Saturday?

Support Small Business Saturday

In these ever-changing, difficult economic times it has become harder and harder for some small businesses to stay afloat. With a new chain store popping up every other day and online sales skyrocketing, it can be tough to stay competitive as a small local business. There is no doubt that the winter holiday season is one of the most popular times for shopping, but where do most people find themselves doing their shopping once the holiday season rolls around? Three years ago American Express introduced an idea that has since grown into a nationally recognized shopping day, known as Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses across the country. It is celebrated every year, since 2010, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, this season, falling on November 30. Why is it important to support small businesses? There are many reasons to support small businesses, some of which include supporting better business practices, creating more jobs, increased property value, better customer service and seeing more quality in your purchases. In my opinion though, the most important reason to buy locally is simply to support your community. All the things I mentioned have an impact on the community you live in. Where we eat, where we shop, where we have fun… all of it makes us unique to a place we call “home,” a place we care about. Unlike chain stores, locally owned businesses typically put a much larger share of their revenue back into the local economy. How does Small Business Saturday work? Basically, the idea is pretty straightforward; encourage people to get out and shop from small local businesses in their neighborhood. As an added incentive, American Express is willing to give a onetime $10 credit to anyone shopping at specific small businesses that have enrolled with the program. To view qualifying businesses you can check out the map here. In order to qualify for the $10 credit you just have to register at ShopSmall.com between November 24 and November 30. As for small business owners and their businesses, the American Express Small Business Saturday website has tons of marketing materials, ideas and plans to help you advertise and promote your store. Go out and shop! If you are one of those people who enjoys to camp outside for Black Fridays sales, great! I wish you the best of luck on your adventures on November 29. Or maybe you’re a fan of Cyber Monday and prefer to sit around in your underwear all day shopping from the comfort of your own home on December 2, that’s fine too. But why not give Small Business Saturday a chance? Give small businesses a chance. On November 30, take a walk around your town, enjoy the fresh air and get some of your holiday shopping done. All the while, saving some money, contributing to the US economy and most importantly, giving back to your community. In NYC this Saturday? Don't forget to stop by and support your favorite small NYC stationery store!

What is Small Business Saturday?

Small Business Saturday is a shopping holiday that takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It was first observed in 2010 and is a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, which feature big box retail and e-commerce stores, respectively. Small Business Saturday encourages holiday shoppers to patronize small and local businesses. The day is promoted by American Express and has been officially recognized by the U.S. Senate and local officials across the country. It has also gained support from large corporations and organizations, making it a significant event for small businesses and their communities.

Benefits of Small Business Saturday

Participating in Small Business Saturday can provide numerous benefits for both consumers and small businesses. For consumers, it offers an opportunity to support local businesses and contribute to the local economy. It also allows them to discover unique and personalized products and services that may not be available at larger retailers. For small businesses, the event can lead to increased sales, heightened visibility, and the opportunity to attract new customers. Additionally, it fosters a sense of community and collaboration among small business owners.

Use Cases for Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday can be utilized by a wide range of businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, service providers, and online shops. It is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on local support and community engagement. Small businesses can use this day to showcase their products or services, offer special promotions, and connect with their customers on a personal level. It also provides an opportunity for businesses to collaborate with other local establishments and create a unified shopping experience for consumers.

Alternatives to Small Business Saturday

While Small Business Saturday is a prominent event for supporting local businesses, there are alternative ways to show support throughout the year. These include participating in community events, shopping at farmers' markets, attending craft fairs, and joining loyalty programs at small businesses. Additionally, consumers can make an effort to spread the word about their favorite local businesses through word-of-mouth recommendations and social media posts.

Tips for Making the Most of Small Business Saturday

Small businesses can maximize their participation in Small Business Saturday by planning ahead and promoting their involvement through various channels. This can include creating special offers, utilizing social media marketing, collaborating with neighboring businesses, and enhancing the in-store shopping experience. It is also important for businesses to express their gratitude to customers and emphasize the impact of their support on the local community.

How Small Business Saturday Impacts Local Communities

Small Business Saturday has a significant impact on local communities by fostering economic growth, preserving the unique character of neighborhoods, and creating a sense of camaraderie among residents. It encourages consumers to explore and invest in their local economy, which can lead to job creation, increased tax revenue, and a stronger sense of community pride. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for small businesses to form lasting connections with their customers and build a loyal customer base.