Small Business Saturday encourages shoppers to patronize local retailers

Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals may dominate the shopping season, but you may find even better bargains and perfect presents at your local small business.

Small Business Saturday, an event meant to shift the shopping focus onto those businesses situated in our own backyard, will take place this weekend.

According to Rob Goza, lead economic development specialist and public information officer for the U.S. Small Business Administration Eastern Pennsylvania District Office, Small Business Saturday helps to promote success for local shops, which in turn benefits their neighborhoods overall.

“Small Business Saturday supports local businesses that create jobs and support communities all over the country,” Goza said. “You’re helping to support your neighbors, your community and your local economy.”

Small Business Saturday started in 2010 by American Express in order to promote support for local shops that were suffering from the economic recession. In 2011, the Senate passed a resolution supporting the day, and by the next year, officials in every state were participating in the event. In 2013, 1,450 people and organizations signed up to be Neighborhood Champions, raising awareness for Small Business Saturday by hosting special events on the day. In 2016, small businesses around the country saw estimated earnings around $15.4 billion.

Marlyn Kissner, executive director/vice president of the northern region for the Carbon Chamber and Economic Development Corporation, pointed out that increased attention for local shops can have a significant impact for owners and employees, in addition to providing shoppers with specialty items that make great gifts.

“Owners are many times the only employee, or one of two or three putting in long hours, at times seven days a week,” she said. “They produce unique and specialty items of great quality for the wonderful people in your life. ”

With the wealth of local independent retailers in the area, there are plenty of opportunities to support Small Business Saturday.

Some locations, including Kountry Krafts and Treasures in Tamaqua, are going the extra yard to stir up some business.

“We have 30 percent off our fall items, and we also have some Tamaqua apparel that will be discounted,” owner Donna Balliet said. “There’s a gift basket, featuring $250 worth of merchandise, that shoppers can enter to win, and the first 10 customers get a free gift.”

The store also features a selection of country kitsch decorations, handcrafted confections, and many more personal gifts that are sure to please.

Shea’s Hardware in Palmerton will have their stock of shoes and athletic gear discounted 25 percent with a coupon, making it a perfect stop to shop for the sports fanatics in your life.

Shopping for an animal aficionado, or maybe something for your own pets? Make sure to swing by Pet Store Universe in Lehighton, where everything, excluding pet foods, will be discounted 10 percent.

If you aren’t sure just what you’re looking for, stop off at the Summit Hill Heritage Center for their craft show, featuring numerous vendors, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Many other businesses will be joining in the fun, so make sure to check out your favorite local shops’ social media pages to see what they have to offer.

Even if you are already mapping out your Cyber Monday buying binges, make sure to set aside some time to visit those local retailers. Not only can you find that perfect and unique present that is sure to please, but you’ll be supporting your own community.

“Small Business Saturday is a great day to support our passionate and hardworking small-business owners,” Kissner said. “It is one day of the year that receives great attention and reminds us all of the importance to shop local. However, it goes much deeper, since shopping small and shopping local supports families and communities.”