(WNY News Now) – Small Business Saturday may have passed, but supporting our local shops is vital for the economy year-round.
Fifteen years ago, the American Express Company launched the first Small Business Saturday promotion, and it’s been growing ever since. Small Business Saturday is a day aimed at encouraging support of small locally owned businesses. At the CHQ Chamber, support for small businesses is baked into everything we do, and not reserved for just one day. In fact, it’s right in our mission statement: to build vital connections, provide professional resources, and champion our local businesses in Chautauqua County.
A recently updated study by Capital One shows that 68 cents of every dollar spent at locally owned retailers remains in the local economy. When you shop at a big box store, just 43-cents of that same dollar goes back into the local economy. Those returns are felt in wages for employees, payments to vendors and suppliers, and more. When you shop only at major online retailers there is no return to the local economy. That same study shows that retail sales in New York State increased 3.9% in 2023. Over 8% of small businesses are retailers.
We are so fortunate in Chautauqua County to have a wide variety of small retail businesses selling everything from kitchenware to books to games to jewelry, clothing, art, and more. Chances are, if you’re looking for a gift for someone on your list you can find it at a small locally owned business. These businesses are owned by and employ our friends, neighbors, and family members.
We recognize the importance of small, independent businesses not only as an economic driver but as key to creating our sense of community. Many communities may be the site of big box stores, but it’s the small retailers and restaurants that truly cater to who we are as a community and provide unique spaces for residents and visitors alike to shop and dine. As much as our local attractions and recreational opportunities set the stage for how we live, work, and play, so do our small businesses. They are the backdrop that makes us special. We hope you’ll enjoy the experience of shopping at small locally owned businesses this holiday season and all year round.
This year’s Small Business Saturday was disrupted by a major snowfall in some parts of Chautauqua County. Even if you couldn’t get out to support our small locally owned retailers on Small Business Saturday, there is still plenty of time left before Christmas to do so. You’ll find some unique gifts and have a great experience!
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