Small Business Saturday is Almost Here!
With the holiday shopping season upon us, many small businesses are preparing by stocking their shelves, organizing inventory and engaging with their customers to market new items, specials or promotions. But there’s one important day that may stick out for small business retailers across the country. That day is Small Business Saturday, taking place the Saturday following Thanksgiving.
In a previous article, we shared the background of the holiday tradition, and ways that you could get involved. As Small Business Saturday continues to grow as a movement, the support for small businesses also continues to grow. A survey conducted on behalf of the National Federation of Independent Businesses and American Express identified that $5.7 billion was spent by consumers aware of the initiative on Small Business Saturday in 2013 alone! And, with total retail sales projected to reach $616.9 billion this holiday season (a 4.1% increase over last year), this means even more opportunities for small business to cash in.
While you don’t have to be formally registered with American Express to participate in Small Business Saturday, there are some perks that come along with registering. You get access to free marketing materials and are included on a map of Small Business Saturday retailers in your area so that customers can easily find you.
Here are a few ways to promote your business alongside Small Business Saturday:
- Create an in-store countdown calendar so your customers are reminded to shop small on Saturday, November 29.
- Make Small Business Saturday feel like a special day – decorate your store with balloons, banners, and provide treats for your customers. You could even raffle off a prize, or offer a special something to the first 10 customers in line.
- Promote your business and Small Business Saturday through your various social media channels! When using Twitter, don’t forget to use the hashtag #SmallBizSat.
- Check in with your Chamber of Commerce or Neighborhood Association – what do they have planned for Small Business Saturday? Make sure you are involved on the community-wide plan so that you don’t miss out on cross-promotional opportunities!
Since its inception in 2005, Small Business Saturday has become a movement to be reckoned with. Don’t miss out on this fun opportunity to engage with your customers and your community!
Are you planning on participating in Small Business Saturday? Let us know in the comments section below!
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