Every year, the holiday season kicks off with major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. But nestled between them is Small Business Saturday, which is dedicated to celebrating and supporting small businesses. Founded in 2010 by American Express, Small Business Saturday has become a movement here in Canada that reminds shoppers of the importance of supporting their local businesses. Let’s dive into why this day matters and how small businesses (and their communities!) can make the most of it.

Why Small Business Saturday Matters

Small Business Saturday is more than just a shopping day. It’s a chance to champion the entrepreneurs and local stores that shape our communities. WHC is proud to support Small Business Saturday, recognizing the hard work and dedication of our clients, many of whom are small businesses that play a vital role in strengthening and enriching communities across Canada. 

Make the Most of Small Business Saturday

If you’re the owner of a small business, these tips will help you maximize your impact and attract customers:

1. Create a Special Offer or Promotion: Give customers a reason to choose your business by offering something special, like a discount or a buy-one-get-one deal. Promos exclusive to Small Business Saturday can increase foot traffic and create excitement.
2. Host an In-Store Event: If possible, add a festive flair by hosting an event in your store. From live music to free hot chocolate or holiday treats, there are tons of great ways to give customers a memorable experience. You could even partner with neighbouring businesses for a community-wide celebration, giving shoppers more reasons to explore the local area.
3. Engage Online and Leverage Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are great for announcing deals and creating buzz, offering a peek behind the scenes, and so much more.
4. Encourage Online Shopping: With more consumers shopping online, small businesses need a solid digital presence. If you have an e-commerce site, make sure it’s ready for a boost in traffic, and consider offering a special online-only deal.
5. Show Appreciation to Your Customers: Expressing gratitude to your customers goes a long way in building loyalty. A thank-you note, a special discount for future purchases, or a small gift can make customers feel appreciated and valued, leading to positive word-of-mouth and encouraging return visits.

The Power of Shopping Local

Here’s how shopping local makes a difference:

1. Strengthening Local Economies: When you shop at a small Canadian business, you’re investing in your local community. Local businesses create jobs and generate tax revenue, which contributes to public infrastructure like schools, parks, and emergency services.
2. Unique Offerings: Small businesses often offer unique, handcrafted, or locally sourced products that you can’t find at big-box stores. Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry, handmade candles, or local artisan foods, shopping small gives you access to products with a personal touch that reflects the character of your community.
3. Environmental Impact: Local businesses often have a smaller environmental footprint. They typically source products from nearby or regional suppliers, reducing transportation emissions. Many also prioritize sustainable practices and support local artisans, farmers, and other small-scale suppliers.
4. Building Community and Connections: Small business owners are a vital part of the communities they serve. They sponsor local events, support schools, and participate in charity drives. Shopping at a small business means supporting someone you know or can meet personally, creating a connection that big corporations can’t match.

What Can Consumers Do to Offer Their Support?

If you’re looking to show some support this Small Business Saturday, here are some ways to make a meaningful impact:

1. Plan Your Day Around Local Shops: Make a list of the small businesses you’d like to visit and plan a day of local shopping. Try to visit stores you don’t usually go to and explore different parts of your community.
2. Share on Social Media: Help spread the word! Share your favourite local finds on social media, tag the business, and use relevant hashtags. A post or story can introduce your friends and followers to a small business they might come to love.
3. Leave a Review: Online reviews are invaluable for small businesses. After your visit, you could leave a positive review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. A good review not only helps the business attract more customers but also strengthens its reputation within the community.
4. Consider Gift Cards: Not sure what to buy? Get a gift card! It’s a thoughtful way to support the business right away while giving your recipient the freedom to pick something they’ll truly love.

The Lasting Impact of Shopping Smaller

It’s not just about a single day; the impact of supporting local businesses lasts all year. When we choose to shop small, we help build a thriving local economy, preserve unique businesses, and keep our communities vibrant and diverse. This Small Business Saturday, let’s show our support by shopping locally, sharing our favourite finds, and remembering that even small purchases can make a big difference in our communities. Need help with your own small business’s online presence as the holidays approach? WHC is here to help!

We’re a small business ourselves, so we’re in tune with all you need to succeed, from web hosting and domains to marketing and SEO. Check out our services!