Owners Prep for Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday on Nov. 28 offers local shops a chance to connect with shoppers and build momentum for the new year. The annual event, which falls the Saturday after Thanksgiving, encourages consumers to support locally owned stores and restaurants during one of the year’s busiest shopping periods. For business owners, the day provides an opportunity to introduce products to new customers and turn one-time buyers into regular patrons. This support helps cover rising costs like supplies, wages, and insurance while giving owners flexibility to plan for growth.
Improve Online Visibility
Shoppers check online listings before they visit a store, so accurate information is essential. Business owners should verify their street address, website, phone number, and holiday hours across social media profiles and directory listings. Social media platforms allow shops to showcase products and menu items, and including prices and practical details like parking availability or pickup options helps nearby customers make decisions. Using the #ShopSmall hashtag and tagging the location can further increase discoverability.
Streamline Gift Shopping
Organizing inventory around specific budgets, interests, or occasions makes it easier for customers to find appropriate gifts. Gift guides featuring items under $25 or locally made products can highlight inventory and encourage exploration. Restaurants can participate by promoting gift cards, takeout meals, and holiday catering services. Highlighting options like gift wrapping, online ordering, and in-store pickup removes barriers for busy shoppers.
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Business owners should use social media to show products, menu items, and special offers.
Turn First-Time Shoppers into Repeat Customers
Small Business Saturday often attracts new faces, but retaining them requires effort after the event ends. Owners can promote the day through in-store signs, conversations, emails, and text messages sent to customers who have opted in to receive updates. Thanking new customers and reminding them of year-round offerings helps maintain that initial connection. Inviting shoppers to join email or text lists ensures they receive future promotions and announcements.
