Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 25th because Small Business Saturday is almost here!
Small Business Saturday is a nationally recognized holiday that promotes shopping locally in your own community. It was first organized by American Express in 2010 and is now held each year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Small Business Saturday is an integral part of the Shop Small movement, an initiative with a goal to support our economy and promote diverse communities. During 2016’s Small Business Saturday, 112 million customers spent an estimated $15.4 billion dollars at small businesses and this year has the potential to be even more successful!
The benefits of shopping at local small businesses are vast. Small businesses have provided 66% of all new jobs since the 1970s and account for 54% of all sales in the U.S. When you shop at small businesses rather than big box stores, more money gets funneled directly back into the community. In fact, on average, 48% of money spent at small businesses is recirculated back into the communities that they serve. Additionally, small businesses are shown to have better customer service and more unique products, leaving the customer more satisfied after the fact.
This year, the The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence at the University of Pittsburgh is a Coalition Supporter, providing materials to help with outreach efforts for small businesses in Pittsburgh and the surrounding counties. You can get involved to support this important cause as well! Small businesses can receive free marketing materials from the Shop Small Studios to promote the day and have their business name listed on the Shop Small map. As a shopper, you can take part in the Shop Small movement by supporting your local businesses during Small Business Saturday and every day.
Check our Facebook page for our Shopping Guide highlighting small businesses in your area. And don’t forget to shop small all year around!