Shop small this holiday season

Grant-Miller-4-C3Once Thanksgiving dinner has been fully digested, it’s time to get shopping. Small Business Saturday is Nov. 26, and it is the most important shopping day of the year. Why? Because spending your money in locally owned businesses keeps more money in our local economy.

A 2005 study conducted by Civic Economics in Andersonville, Ill., a suburb of Chicago, found that out of every $100 spent at locally owned businesses, $68 stays in the area, while $32 buys supplies that must be imported from elsewhere. Out of every $100 spent at a non-local business, $43 stays and $57 leaves.

Most chain stores are owned by bigger companies that are not based in Miami. They employ lawyers, accountants and other service personnel in their hometowns; not ours. So, the trickle-down effect is real. When you shop at a small business, you’re supporting your local economy and your local job base.

Small Business Saturday is a movement about Main Street; not Wall Street. The day originated in 2010 as a marketing campaign launched by American Express as a counter punch to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It was quickly recognized as more than a gimmick because small business drives our economy. The movement is now supported by the Small Business Administration; however, American Express still plays an active role in promoting the campaign. In fact, the credit card company will give you double bonus points when you Shop Small Nov. 26 through the end of the year. Just go to shopsmall.com to register your American Express card. 

All in all, it’s a better deal to shop small. It’s easier to find great gifts and only small businesses can offer the most genuine, friendly customer service. You can even shop locally online by purchasing a gift certificate or a gift to ship. 

When your shopping day is done, consider dining small at a favorite local restaurant or watering hole and help usher in a new tradition of Small Business Saturday Night.


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