CROMWELL, Conn. — The Better Business Bureau encourages Connecticut consumers to continue their holiday shopping by supporting small businesses on Small Business Saturday.
Celebrated the day after Black Friday, SBS is an annual event designed to highlight the value of small, independent businesses to local economies and communities.
SBS was Launched in 2010 by American Express. They invite all shoppers to visit local stores or shop online to help sustain the unique character and spirit of their hometowns.
“Small businesses are the backbone of many communities, providing personalized services and unique products,” said BBB spokesperson Lisa King. “Supporting them, particularly during the holidays, can have a long-lasting impact on the local economy.”
BBB offers several tips for shoppers looking to make the most of Small Business Saturday:
Get Involved: Many communities host special events to celebrate Small Business Saturday. Check local chambers of commerce, merchants’ associations, or the SBS website for information on events happening near you.
Sign Up for Email Alerts: Many small businesses offer special promotions during SBS. Signing up for their email lists can unlock exclusive discounts and help you save on holiday shopping.
Research Local Businesses: Before shopping, do your research on local shops. BBB.org offers consumer reviews, and you can identify businesses that are BBB Accredited, ensuring they adhere to high ethical standards. Visit ShopSmall.org to find participating stores in your area.
Shop and Dine Small: Remember, SBS isn’t just about shopping. Local restaurants, cafes, and bakeries also participate, so make time to enjoy a meal or treat at a local establishment while you’re out and about.
Look for the BBB Seal: When shopping, look for businesses displaying the BBB Seal, which signifies a commitment to trust, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Shopping with BBB-accredited businesses offers peace of mind and helps avoid scams, especially during the busy holiday season.
By supporting small businesses today, consumers will not only find unique and meaningful gifts but also play a key role in the economic and social health of their communities. In person or online, every purchase made locally counts toward creating a stronger more vibrant community.
Meanwhile, National Federation of Independent Business Connecticut State Director Andy Markowski calls all residents to shop local and support their neighborhood businesses.
Markowski emphasized that Connecticut's small businesses play a crucial role in the state's economy, providing employment to more than 40% of the workforce.
“Connecticut’s economy rests on the backs of its small businesses,” Markowski said. “Big businesses get the attention, but it's the small businesses that truly keep our communities strong and vibrant. Every dollar spent at a local small business helps sustain our hometowns, with an estimated 67 cents of every dollar staying right in the community.”
Markowski said shopping small not only benefits the local economy but also gives consumers access to personalized service, unique products and a chance to connect with the business owners who are dedicated to their communities.
“Supporting local shops and restaurants creates a sense of connection and strengthens the local economy for years to come,"said Markowski.
As consumers plan their holiday shopping, NFIB encourages everyone to make Small Business Saturday a part of their tradition. By choosing to shop locally, residents of Connecticut can help ensure the continued success of the small businesses that form the backbone of the state's economy.
For more information about the benefits of supporting small businesses, visit www.NFIB.com.
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