Most of us have done it. It only takes a few clicks at the Amazon site and a package arrives at our doorstep virtually hours later. Need something delivered on a Sunday? No problem. The U.S. Postal service which only recently was threatening to curtail Saturday delivery, will gladly deliver a package on a Sunday if you’re an Amazon Prime Member. Yes, we all support the world’s richest company.
When we do, we need not wonder where the money goes. Yes, it helps the person who delivers the package, but most of it leaves the community, while the small business owners - the ones who pay taxes and live among us - struggle to earn a living.
That’s why Small Business Saturday was created. This Saturday, November 30, marks the tenth observance of the post Black Friday event designed to keep more of that holiday shopping revenue right here in our own community.
It was created in 2010 during a recession and at a time when Black Friday shopping was just starting to encroach on our Thanksgiving celebration. Big box stores were opening before the crack of dawn on Black Friday, then at midnight. Now most of them have Thanksgiving hours, obliterating a holiday in which we are supposed to give thanks for simple gifts like family and food. Since 2005, Cyber Monday has been unofficially observed on the Monday, following Thanksgiving, giving rise to internet shopping. Another challenge for local businesses.
You may not realize it, but you do make a difference every time you sign up for a pilates or yoga class, visit the local book store or dine out at a local cafe or restaurant.In fact, for every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S., approximately 67 cents stays in the local community.1 So when you Shop Small on Small Business Saturday—and all year long—it can help add up to a big impact.
Keeping money in the community allows it to grow. It means more revenue and more to reinvest. Success breeds more success and that leads to more community services and a more vibrant community.
If we all resolve to support local businesses this holiday season, we’ll all have more reason to celebrate in 2020!
Happy Thanksgiving.