Local Businesses Gear Up for Small Business Saturday
SOUTHAVEN, Miss. – With the Thanksgiving feast behind us and the Black Friday sales wrapping up, local communities across the nation, including DeSoto County, are now turning their attention to Small Business Saturday, a crucial day dedicated to supporting independent retailers.
Falling this year on Saturday, Nov. 29, the initiative urges consumers to “Shop Small” and invest their holiday dollars into local, independent shops rather than major chains or online giants.
A Critical Boost for Local Economies
Launched in 2010 by American Express, Small Business Saturday has become an annual anchor for thousands of local economies. The movement highlights the economic impact of local spending: a higher percentage of money spent at small, independent businesses remains in the community, supporting local jobs, services, and taxes.
Small business owners remind shoppers that by shopping small this holiday season, they are directly supporting the community where that business is located. Support allows them to give more hours to their staff, who then spend money in their own community. It’s a big win-win for everyone, ensuring our neighborhood stays vibrant.”
How to Participate
Small businesses are preparing to welcome shoppers with special deals, unique promotions, and festive events. Consumers are encouraged to participate in several key ways:
- Visit Independent Shops: Seek out neighborhood bookstores, coffee shops, and specialized retailers.
- Support Online: Check if local businesses have an online store for convenient shopping.
- Spread the Word: Shoppers can help amplify the effort by sharing their purchases on social media using the hashtags #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday.
- Leave a Review: Positive online reviews are invaluable support that costs nothing.
For many small retailers, the holiday shopping season—kicked off by this Saturday—can make or break their entire year. Residents are reminded that supporting a small business is supporting a dream.
