Shoppers Encouraged to Support Small Businesses During Holidays: ‘Backbone of Our Economy’
PENSACOLA (FLV) – The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network urged shoppers to support small businesses throughout the holiday season.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said State Director of the Florida SBDC Network Greg Britton. “This holiday season, the Florida SBDC is ready to shop small and support our local businesses. We want to encourage consumers to consider shopping small this Small Business Saturday and throughout the holidays.”
Small Business Saturday serves as the ceremonial kickoff to the holiday shopping season for small businesses across the U.S., which will be held this Saturday, Nov. 26. This day is dedicated to support small businesses and to strengthen communities across the country.
Some reasons the Florida SBDC encourages customers to shop locally include small businesses need support, more money stays in your community when choosing to shop small, it can offer a better shopping experience and there can be more unique gift options.
According to the 2021 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, spending among customers who shopped at independent retailers and restaurants reached an estimated $23.3 billion and online shopping continued to grow with 58 percent of customers who reported they shopped with a small business. 70 percent of respondents said the day makes them want to encourage others to shop at small, independently-owned retailers.
The Florida SBDC Network has helped more than 1.7 million small businesses since its starting point. They provide consulting, training, and resources to help small businesses launch, grow and thrive.
Businesses may consider participating through some ways including going through the small business website to download customizable marketing materials such as, storefront signage, website banners, and social posts. Other ways to participate include partnering with other small businesses in the community, offering special discounts or promotions, and encouraging customers to participate through social media or email marketing.
