Consider supporting local businesses in a variety of ways
RICHMOND — Small Business Saturday falls on November 28
this year, one of the most difficult years ever for many locally owned
businesses across the state. That’s especially true for restaurants
and retail shops. The National Federation of Independent Business
(NFIB) is encouraging Virginians to support their local small
businesses in a variety of ways on Small Business Saturday and beyond.
If people prefer not to go out shopping or dining this season, many
small businesses offer their products online as well as home delivery
or curbside pickup. A small business owner is much more likely to be
available by phone if customers have questions. Showing support for
local businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout 2021 will
help business owners get past the recent economic downturn and
thriving once again.
“Now more than ever we encourage Virginians to shop their local small
businesses because the pandemic has been difficult for many, and our
local retail shops, restaurants and entertainment venues have been
especially hit hard,” said Virginia’s NFIB State Director Nicole
Riley. “We encourage shoppers to remember they’re likely to experience
more personal customer service with a local business, and more of
their favorite shops and restaurants are now available online. With
the support of local customers, small businesses are more likely to
survive this challenging economic crisis and begin to grow again.”
Small Business Saturday has been held the weekend after Thanksgiving
since it was created eleven years ago by American Express following
the 2009 recession. The event gained in popularity and led to record
sales on Small Business Saturday last year. Consumers spent a record
$19.6 billion on Small Business Saturday in 2019 according to the
Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey
conducted by American Express and NFIB.
“Shoppers probably don’t realize the big impact spending their
hard-earned cash has in their community when shopping local,” added
Riley. “Small businesses employ about half of all workers so local
folks have places to work, small businesses support local charities
and organizations, and a thriving Main Street means a flourishing
community.”
