EDITORIAL: Small Business Saturday puts locals in focus
Nov 24, 2012 (Menafn - Herald-Times - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) --Today is Small Business Saturday, the perfect day for our annual plea to remember local merchants as you go out to shop this holiday season.
American Express -- which is anything but a small business -- in 2010 launched this special day that lands between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It gives small businesses -- the shops that help shoppers distinguish one community from another -- a higher profile amidst the rush for bargains during the most hyped shopping weekend of the year.
In Bloomington, we pride ourselves in the wide array of unique stores and restaurants. Many of them are downtown, but some can be found in all corners of the city.
All communities in our area have local shops as well, places where you can count on personal service and fair deals.
The big box retailers have their place and provide what some shoppers want and need. But there are many advantages to the small businesses that should not be overlooked.
Smaller, locally owned retail outlets have carefully selected merchandise with individual communities in mind. There often are items that can't be found elsewhere -- the perfect gift for the right person.
The business owner is often on the scene when you shop at these stores. The owner and those who work for her or him have a lot invested in making sure you, the customer, is satisfied.
The money you spend with local merchants and restaurants is more likely to be reinvested in the community -- through jobs provided, money spent on goods and services, property taxes paid and charitable donations made.
As we've written before, when you're out shopping this holiday season, please think about the effect you can have with your spending decisions. Please give the local businesses the chance to earn your business. If you decide to shop with a national chain store, consider the ones close to your community because they provide local jobs, and some are great supporters of local charitable causes.
And today, celebrate Small Business Saturday by pledging to spend at least a few more dollars than last year with local small businesses.
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