Local Businesses Thrive on Small Business Saturday
NORTH JACKSON — The day after Black Friday is known to many as “Small Business Saturday.” Businesses in Jackon say this day is typically their busiest day of the year, and this year was no exception. “Especially around this time of the year. It’s the time to shop so you have everyone looking for that special someone,” Chris Case, general manager at Robert’s Jeweler’s, said. Case says there are benefits to shopping local. “More one-on-one, more personal, everybody will know you by name and treat you like family. That’s what we are here, family.” Some local stores offered specials to encourage people to shop local. Robert’s Jeweler’s gave out a PS4 if you spent $1999 or more, along with other electronics. The owner of Marilyn Jackson’s Gifts says that spending money locally will benefit the buyer too. “We put money right back into our community, we put money right back into advertising. That’s money we actually get,” Jackson said. Stores say that nearly 70 cents out of every $1 goes back into the community as paychecks, taxes and services. Case and Jackson both say they hope the community continues to embrace the local holiday shopping trend in future years. “It’s really great and I hope the community rallies around it and takes notice that small businesses are definitely here for you. We’ll go that extra mile.” Chris Case said. Americans spent $5.5 billion at “mom and pop” stores last year on “Small Business Saturday.” American Express started “Small Business Saturday” in 2010.
