Congratulations, Mr. or Mrs. Black Friday shopper. You have successfully survived the crowds, sales, attitudes, and all things “Black Friday.”
As you relax and reflect on your day of “shopping big,” do not forget to “shop small.” Local retailers, in Minden and beyond, also need your patronage this weekend. Many have special discounts and other enticing deals to earn your business. However, the reasons for shopping your locally owned retailers are more than immediate pocketbook savings.
Local businesses are the backbone of many community services we all have come to expect. For instance, local businesses are the ones who sponsor little league teams, pay local taxes, donate to worthy local causes, get involved in the betterment of the community, the list could go on and on. Aren’t those things worth paying “a little extra?”
It is said that a dollar spent locally turns over seven times before it leaves the community. Just imagine what would happen if the combined populations of communities in Webster Parish all spent $20 each in local retailers. The impact would be felt in a great way.
To be honest, the notion of buying local wasn’t always a front-burner thought for me. Finding the best “deal” would always be the trump card. In fact, I prided myself on being an early adopter of Amazon Prime. Cyber Monday was always circled on my calendar.
All that changed as I watched the businesses of our community give, give and give some more to worthwhile causes. From St. Jude to little league, our businesses support our community, and they deserve our support.
Tomorrow is a perfect opportunity to “give back” to those who give so much. Small Business Saturday® is a nationwide effort to bring the holiday shopping boost to Main Street.
In fact, for every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S., approximately 67 cents stays in the local community. So when you Shop Small on Small Business Saturday — and all year long — it can help add up to a big impact.
Many consumers said Small Business Saturday® inspires them to continue to shop and dine small throughout the year and not just for the holidays. Many consumers said Small Business Saturday® inspires them to continue to shop and dine small throughout the year and not just for the holidays.
Wouldn’t it be amazing if our streets were flooded tomorrow with shoppers like the mall and “big box” shopping centers were flooded today? They can be. It is up to us to decide that shopping small is worth it.
I’ll be out and about tomorrow. Will I see you there?
