Have you ever driven to your favorite store only to find the doors locked and a big “Out of Business” sign posted?  First you’re dumbfounded, then bummed out.  You loved going there because the clerks knew you by name,
they were knowledgeable, they carried the best brands and, the place smelled fabulous! Now what?!
This scene plays out regularly in our towns and communities – maybe too regularly.
We all have our favorite stores, some local, some online. Â We all want to save money and feel like we’re getting a good deal, and we also want to feel appreciated. Â Sometimes you can save a$1 or so by shopping at a big box store or going online. Â For instance, my retired father will drive 20 miles to Walmart to save on soap and toilet paper. Â I guess he has the time, but really – what is he saving?
If, like me, you are attached to those small businesses that help enrich our communities, Â then this weekend is for you.
American Express founded Small Business Saturday in 2010 to help small business share some of the shopping excitement during this big weekend. American Express explains,
Between
Black Friday and Cyber Monday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses nationwide. Last year, over one hundred million people* came together to Shop Small® in their communities on Small Business Saturday®,
You can help your favorite local store/restaurant/etc. on Small Business Saturday, November 24, 2012. Â When you shop local, your dollars go right back into the community where you live – supporting your neighbors, schools, churches, etc. Â If there are local shops, restaurants, etc that you would miss if they closed, go out of your way to support them on Small Business Saturday. Â You have the power! Â You have the power to save your favorite local store(s).
Looking past this Saturday, the 3/50 Project (founded by @cindabaxter) supports the brick and mortar stores our country was built on year round.
If half the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned independent businesses, it would generate more than $42.6 million revenue. Â What 3 independent businesses would you miss if they disappeared? Â Stop in, say hello. Â Pick up something that brings a smile. Â Your purchases are what keeps those businesses around! Â Pick 3, Spend $50, Save your local economy.
As a small business owner, I have become more discriminating about where I shop. Â I will shop at the Shopko near my home because it’s convenient and they are a Wisconsin-based business. Â I’ll happily pay a $1 or two more there, instead of traveling to Walmart 12 miles away. Â I will avoid Walmart because of the masses of people and their business principles (that are unscrupulous if you ask employees and vendors).
I can also count the number of times I’ve shopped on Amazon this year on one finger. They seem to be trying to become everything to everybody; now they’re even offering small business loans! Â Amazon will eradicate small businesses unless consumers wake up.
Natural Healthy Concepts is proud to be an independent small business in Appleton, Wisconsin, and we’ll have a special offer for our local customers visiting our store at 310 N Westhill Blvd near Woodman’s on Saturday, November 24th. Â Stop in for a free lip balm with your $10 purchase or more. Â Plus, when you “check-in” on Facebook, you’ll receive a free gift from 100% Pure Cosmetics! Â We’re open every Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Monday thru Friday 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
What do you think?  Please tell us here about your favorite local store you will support this Saturday, and over the coming year!
Related articles:
- Participate in Small Business Saturday Nov. 24 (newhope360.com)
- November 24th – Small Business Saturday (anamericanperspective.wordpress.com)
- Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price (topdocumentaryfilms.com)
- How Amazon Exploits Small Business (mashable.com)
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Certified Nutritionist in Appleton, Wisconsin, Founder of Natural Healthy Concepts. Natural health and nutrition advocate. Enjoys gardening, biking, fitness, boating, animals (especially cats), and cooking.
