Encourage Your Customers to Shop Local this Saturday

November 23, 2011 Jillian Koeneman Freshlime, joel barrett, small business saturday blog

The Saturday after Thanksgiving has always been a big shopping day, but thanks to American Express this is the second year it is being dubbed “Small Business Saturday”.

Why is this important? I’m glad you asked!

SHOLO a shop local organization in South Bend, Indiana encourages you to shop local because of the following:

• Every dollar you spend in a locally owned, independent business has a huge impact on the local economy. In fact, your dollar will have three times the economic benefit compared to the same purchase made at a chain retailer.
• Beyond the immediate effect of payroll, independent businesses bank locally, hire local accountants, attorneys and consultants, graphic designers, and advertise in local media. While big box retailers have an immediate impact on the local economy by means of payroll, a whopping 86% of the average chain retailer’s revenue leaves the state, flowing to out-of-state suppliers, and back to corporate headquarters.
• Independent businesses are owned by people who are your neighbors. They make their decisions based on the needs and interests of their customers, not by some formulaic concept of a distant corporate office. Our freedom of choice is imperiled when a few buyers from national chains choose what reaches consumers.
• Locally owned, independent businesses offer original and unique products and services. This adds interest, diversity, and character to our communities. By shopping locally, you support the independent business owner’s creativity and ingenuity, and help create a more vibrant shopping experience for everyone.

American Express, the force behind Small Business Saturday has this to say:

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there were nearly 28 million small businesses in the United States last year. Over the past two decades, they created 65 percent of net new jobs. For every $100 spent in locally-owned, independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. 

American Express will give shoppers a one-time credit of $25 on their statement if they register their Amex card and shop at a local business on Small Business Saturday.

If you live here in Michiana, Michiana360 is doing a Shop Local Challenge and they are providing a list of local businesses who are offering specials on Small Business Saturday.

It really isn’t much to ask is it? Shop local as much as possible and this November 26 make it a priority. Every dollar is a vote. Let’s show our community what is important to us!

– Joel Barrett