By Bethany Byrd

The impact of an event like Small Business Saturday can’t be limited to a tally of a single day’s sales, or a list of great deals found on holiday gifts for loved ones. The value of an event like this represents something much bigger – a return to an appreciation and support of small business owners, and the impact this shift makes on the local economy.

According to the 2013 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insight Survey, over $5.7 billion was spent at independent retailers during last year’s event.

Consider this: When you spend $100 at a locally-owned small business, $68 stays in the local economy. Compare that to the same $100 spend at a large, chain-type business where only $43 remains locally. With the average American shopper likely to spend $684 on holiday gifts this year, shopping at independent businesses in your hometown has the potential to make a major impact on the health of the local economy.

Supporting local folks during SBS

But, it’s not just about the tax dollars or the economy, is it? The effect of an event like SBS is even bigger than that – it has a direct impact on the goals and dreams of local folks just like you. When you support Laurel’s small business owners, you’re telling them that you appreciate the work they are doing to further our city’s growth, and that you believe in them.

Dan Danner, the CEO of NFIB at American Express says:

“In an uncertain economy, America’s small businesses have remained a beacon — creating good jobs and supporting the families they employ and the communities around them. We are very pleased that so many Americans sought to give back by shopping small this Small Business Saturday. We hope that support of small firms, retailers, restaurants and other independent businesses continues throughout the holiday season and all year round. Continued support of this vital sector is one important way to ensure our economy fully recovers and a healthy private sector is restored.”

And we aren’t alone! Support of Small Business Saturday has spread throughout the United States and is seeing consistent, measurable growth year after year.

“In just four years, the nation has adopted Small Business Saturday and made it part of the holiday shopping tradition,” said Susan Sobbott, president of American Express OPEN. “(Last year), we saw a continuation of this growing trend as communities around the country came together to celebrate local businesses and helped drive consumers to Shop Small on the day.”

Where to #shopsmall in Laurel, MS

As the official Neighborhood Champion for Laurel’s Small Business Saturday, Laurel Main Street has worked to bring together an incredible group of local retailers who are ready to welcome you during the November 29th event!

See below for a list of businesses who will open their doors so that you can #shopsmall on November 29!

From Sawmill Rd:

Misty’s
New Look
Artworks
The Shoppes at Sawmill Marketplace -Peddlers’ Junktion, Quarter Century, Goodness Gracious

Down Central Ave & Commerce St.:

It’s What a Girl Wants
All Jazzed Up
Elegant Evenings
Retail Therapy
Patina’s

Up Magnolia St. and Oak St.:

Southern Antique
Clairmont Designs

Join us November 29 in Downtown Laurel to get great deals, find some incredible local gifts, and enjoy a fun shopping experience, but, most importantly – to support the folks who are trying to make a difference for our city!