Next week is Thanksgiving, and then the holiday season begins. “You get what you get and don’t throw a fit” may be the national holiday motto this year. National shipping companies have been warning of slow holiday shipping since September. You may be shopping for what you can find in stores near you. Fortunately, local shops have lots to offer. Plus, when you shop locally, your community gains not just the sales tax from your purchase, but also jobs and income, property tax, and vibrancy. If you’re avoiding crowds, many small businesses have website and are still offering curbside pickup.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has co-sponsored Small Business Saturday (with American Express) since 2010. The SBA reported that last year, US consumers spent $19.8 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday. Still, a 2019 SBA study showed that 70% of U.S. consumers were unaware of the event. Now you know!
Among Small Business Saturday shoppers in the 2019 survey, 97% agreed that small businesses are essential to their communities. The Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council notes 98% of businesses have fewer than 20 employees (96% have fewer than 10).
Dudensing, Rebekka. “What does “Shop Small” mean for your Small Town?” Southern Ag Today 1(47.5). November 19, 2021. Permalink
