Shop Small this Saturday
Straight Talk with Sam
The hustle and bustle of the holidays are officially upon us. Whether you're spending time with family this weekend or recovering from your marathon Black Friday shopping spree, I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you to think about a great opportunity to support businesses in the community by "shopping small" when you are looking for some of this years' gifts.
Since 2010, Small Business Saturday has taken place on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, right in the middle of a weekend that is seemingly dedicated to shopping for Christmas. This year is no different.
Communities around North Missouri will have special events and sales designed to encourage you to get out and visit your local, independently-owned merchants. Last year, an estimated 108 million people visited their local retailers during Small Business Saturday and this year looks to be even bigger due to a booming economy!
Your friends and neighbors have put a tremendous amount of blood, sweat and tears into creating a business that is needed in your community. From antique shops, jewelry stores or clockmakers to home décor, kitchen supplies and wood workers; there are so many different unique options out there. If you've never taken a moment to see what businesses are hidden in plain sight, Small Business Saturday is a great opportunity to do so.
There are 30 million small businesses across the country creating 2 out of every 3 net new jobs. That's about 1.9 million net new jobs! Undoubtedly, these businesses are the backbone of our communities. Rural America thrives when our small businesses thrive which is why it's so critical that we support them.
Whether you do your shopping in St. Joe, Maryville, Kirksville, Hannibal or anywhere in between, make plans to visit your local small businesses this Saturday and "shop small." You'll be amazed at what you might find and you'll be supporting your community and the American Dream in the process.
Sincerely,
Sam Graves