Google trend - Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is an annual shopping event that takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in the United States. It was first observed in 2010 and has since gained significant popularity, serving as a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The day is dedicated to supporting and promoting small businesses in local communities across the country.

The concept of Small Business Saturday was introduced by American Express, a financial services company, to encourage consumers to shop at small, independently-owned businesses. The aim was to create a holiday shopping tradition that would help boost local economies and highlight the importance of small businesses in communities.

Small businesses play a crucial role in the economy, as they create jobs, foster innovation, and contribute to the unique character of neighborhoods. However, they often face tough competition from larger retailers and online giants. Small Business Saturday seeks to level the playing field by providing these businesses with increased visibility and support.

One of the key features of Small Business Saturday is the emphasis on shopping locally. By patronizing small businesses, consumers can help keep money within their communities. Studies have shown that for every dollar spent at a small business, 67 cents stays in the local economy, compared to only 43 cents for larger retailers. This can have a significant impact on the overall economic health and vitality of a community.

To promote Small Business Saturday, various initiatives are undertaken at the national, state, and local levels. American Express provides free marketing materials, such as posters and social media graphics, to small businesses to help them promote their participation in the event. Additionally, the company runs a Shop Small Studio, which offers customized marketing assets and resources to participating businesses.

Local governments and community organizations also play a crucial role in promoting Small Business Saturday. They organize events, such as street fairs and pop-up markets, to showcase small businesses and attract shoppers. These events create a festive atmosphere and encourage people to explore and discover new local businesses.

In recent years, the impact of Small Business Saturday has been significant. According to the Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, an estimated 110 million consumers participated in Small Business Saturday in 2019, spending a record-breaking $6 billion. This demonstrates the growing recognition and support for small businesses among consumers.

Small Business Saturday has also gained traction on social media platforms. The hashtag #ShopSmall is used to promote the event and encourage consumers to share their experiences and support for small businesses. Many businesses offer special deals and discounts on Small Business Saturday to attract customers, further driving the momentum of the day.

In conclusion, Small Business Saturday is an annual event dedicated to supporting and promoting small businesses. It encourages consumers to shop locally and highlights the importance of small businesses in communities. Through various initiatives and events, Small Business Saturday has become an integral part of the holiday shopping season, helping to boost local economies and foster a sense of community. By supporting small businesses on this day and throughout the year, consumers can make a positive impact on their communities and help ensure the continued success of these vital enterprises.