Small Business Saturday: Small Gets Big [Infographic]

Rachel Bailey — November 16, 2016 Follow @rachelf414

You’ve heard it before: small businesses are the backbone of the economy. And, it’s true. When consumers are spending their money in the community in which they live that strengthens the local economy in ways that it wouldn’t if they spent their dollars at a larger corporation.

According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses represent 99.7 percent of all employer firms, creating 64 percent of new jobs since 1995. This year and every year we have an opportunity to show our support for these businesses who work hard to make our communities strong.

Back in 2010, American Express launched this thing called Small Business Saturday where consumers were encouraged to shop small. Each year since then more and more supporters have pledged their allegiance to Small Business Saturday with 95 million people shopping at small businesses last year. With a wealth of resources and neighborhood champions, small businesses are in a great position to spread the word about their company and join in on the celebration.

So, what exactly makes someone want to shop small? Nearly 94 percent of consumers say that shopping at a small business makes them feel good. I think we can all agree.

Let’s not forget that Small Business Saturday also honors the mom and pop restaurants as well. When you’re out there shopping, you’re bound to get hungry, so why not support your local pizza place?

Our hope is this infographic will motivate consumers to take out those credit cards, divvy up that cash and spend their money where it will matter. To find out what small businesses in your area are participating, the Shop Small website has a map that details that information. Even a simple Twitter search using the #ShopSmall hashtag will provide you with inspiration on how you can get involved.

Check out the stats in the infographic because you do make a difference on this holiday.

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