Big-box stores may dominate Black Friday with doorbuster deals, but small businesses have their own opportunity to capitalize on the holiday shopping season. Small Business Saturday, held the day after Black Friday, is a chance for local stores to create a unique shopping experience that most big-box retailers can’t replicate, and it brings in a lot of money– last year, U.S. shoppers spent about $17 billion on that day alone.1
Tips for Small Businesses to Thrive During the Holidays
Preparation is critical to having a successful holiday season. Start early by setting clear marketing goals, planning promotions, and preparing for increased foot traffic by stocking up on inventory and possibly extending store hours. Also, review your numbers from last year– what worked, what didn’t, what products were popular, and what was left over? Taking time to plan on the front end can make for a smoother holiday rush and ensure customers find what they’re looking for.
Getting in the holiday spirit helps too. Decorate and create a festive atmosphere. Hosting an in-store event, offering refreshments, or running a special promotion can create excitement and bring in more shoppers. Maybe consider partnering with other local businesses to share resources and collaborate on promotions to build a sense of community that can attract shoppers looking to support multiple stores at once.
Use your digital presence to your advantage. Update your website and social media pages with current hours, holiday specials, and promotions so customers are informed and engaged. Using hashtags like #ShopSmall or #HolidayShopping can also help small businesses connect with broader social media trends, boosting visibility during the year’s busiest shopping season.
Be thoughtful about your approach to holiday shopping and embrace the charm only small businesses can offer. Small Business Saturday and the weeks that follow are a prime opportunity to connect with your community, showcase your store– and products, and create a memorable experience that keeps customers coming back.
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Sources:
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/newsroom/articles/shop-small/us-consumers-report-an-estimated–17-billion-spending-at-small-b.html
