Reasons to Support Small Businesses on Nov. 24th and Beyond

November 24 is Small Business Saturday, a shopping holiday that urges consumers to patronize small and independent businesses rather than online retailers or big box stores.

American Express was behind the first Small Business Saturday, which started in 2010. The initial goal was to counter the negative effects of the recession on small businesses and local economies.

The holiday quickly caught on. In 2011, the Senate passed a resolution in support of Small Business Saturday. Consumers have now spent an estimated $85 billion at independent retailers and restaurants over the eight Small Business Saturdays since its inception.

Small Businesses Make a Significant Economic Impact

Research has shown that independent businesses return triple the amount of money to local economies as their chain store competitors. Besides the direct impact of taxes and small business spending on things like wages and supplies, there’s the indirect impact of employee spending in the community as well. This multiplying effect is considerable.

Everyone knows that it’s appealing to buy from big online retailers; they bring consumers great convenience. But such mega companies do even less than chain stores for local economies — since the only locally employed person involved in the transaction would be a delivery driver.

Consider the impact on local economies if more Americans made the effort to consciously buy from local businesses — not just during Small Business Saturday, but year round.

Reasons to Buy Local

• Your small business purchase is powerful. It’s an investment in a local entrepreneur’s dreams.

• Small businesses pays local taxes and employ local people, which helps build local economies.

• Local business owners are neighbors, colleagues and friends. Supporting them helps build community and social capital.

• Small business owners typically have ties to the communities where they operate, which encourages them to give back and support area nonprofits and causes.

• Small businesses often cater to their customers, providing more personalized customer service.

• Local businesses are more likely to have unique, handmade or one-of-a-kind products that can’t be found at chain stores or big online retailers.

• Buying from a local business is more sustainable. Small businesses typically have less of an impact on the environment (reduced packaging, fewer emissions from shipping, etc.).

Join Us in Supporting Local Businesses on November 24th and Beyond

The Red Wing Port Authority supports small businesses and recognizes their importance in our community. Need some tips on where to shop locally for the holidays? Check out this directory of businesses participating in Small Business Saturday or visit our local chamber directory.