In the age of global markets and capitalism is it easy for small businesses to struggle and fail. But, we have the power to change this. Small Business Saturday started in 2010 and has taken off to support small hometown businesses. American Express started the “Small Business Saturday” to bring attention to smaller stores in communities and encourage shoppers to support small stores instead of the Mega Stores on Black Friday or Cyber Monday.
Why focus on Small Business?
As we all know, the Day and weekend after Thanksgiving are the biggest shopping days of any given year. Millions of dollars are poured into the Big Box stores such as Walmart, Best Buy, and Macy’s. It’s hard for small businesses to compete with these Mega Stores.
The small town movement is less about getting the best deal, but more about supporting the people you know and trust. It could be your friend’s grandpa down the street that owns the feed store, or your neighbor who has a lawn business, or perhaps a good friend of yours that owns a clothing boutique. These “Mom & Pop” businesses offer something special and unique with their personal and friendly service that you may not always get from the “big guys”. By supporting your hometown businesses, it keeps money in your community, and is a way of giving back.
Unlike the Large nationwide stores, these small businesses may not be able to advertise in advance, so follow them on Facebook or other social media or watch for circulars in your mailbox.
Ways to Support your Local Businesses:
- Treat yourself to a new hairdo for the holiday by visiting your local beauty shop
- Feel like splurging on something sparkly? Visit your local jeweler and buy something sparkly for that special someone (or treat yourself!)
- Holiday Lights? Pay your landscaper to do your exterior holiday decorating
- Craving some Christmas cookies? If you don’t have time to whip up a batch of homemade cookies on your own, contact your local bakery or the town “cookie lady.”
- Traveling out of town for the holidays? Contact a local pet sitter to make sure your furry friend is well taken care of while you are gone.
Mark your calendar!
November 26th is Small Business Saturday! Support our towns – Kountze, Buna, Evadale, Silsbee and Kirbyville. Small town businesses depend heavily on their local communities. As a customer, pay it forward in a way that matters most to them – through your wallet.
Eastex CU would like to extend a special Thank You to all of the small business owners in our community!
