It’s just about time to check out our local shops for Small Business Saturday and get going on your holiday list. Are you ready to find some of the best deals right in your own community? Log on to your community Facebook page, check the local newspaper and listen to the radio for Small Business Saturday specials.

  This holiday season, 65 percent of consumers plan to complete up to 75 percent of their holiday shopping in-store at a local small business, according to new research from digital marketing solutions firm G/O Digital. Only 1 percent of respondents said they would be not be completing any of their holiday shopping at local small businesses. Business News Daily

Look at how social minded holiday shopping can make a positive impact on our communities. This year let’s give gifts to our friends and loved ones that are socially responsible by considering where the gift comes from. Making a conscious decision to support our small businesses, you can help to preserve local culture while also making a difference in the economy.

Since 2010, consumers with conscience, flair and an eye for great deals have swarmed their local small shops on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in support of Small Business Saturday. More a burgeoning movement than a one-day event, Small Business Saturday will take place nationwide this year on November 29. The concept, originally launched by American Express and recognized by the U.S. Senate, has helped change the landscape of big-city neighborhoods and small town U.S.A. If you’re not participating yet, this is why you should.

Why shop at a locally owned business first? The following  reasons show how more money spent at local businesses is reinvested in your community creating diversity and helping the community maintain or create its unique appeal.

• Shopping local creates jobs.

                     – Shops in our communities create local employment and self-employment. 

• Local shops sell a wide range of products at affordable prices.

                     – People fall out of the habit of shopping locally and are then surprised by the range of products and gifts available.

• Shopping local retains our communities.

                    – People don’t like losing shops and services in small towns but don’t equate this to how they spend their money.

• Local shops are for everyone.

                   – Most people can get to their local shops easily and this is especially important for the elderly and young generations and those without transportation.

• Local shops value you more.

                   – People receive better customer care and service locally. These businesses survive by their reputation and repeat business.

• Shopping local saves services.

                  – Private and public sector services tend to cluster around shops. As shops disappear so do hairdressers, banks, restaurants, etc.

 Stop by your local stores November 25th and shop till you drop on Small Business Saturday.

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