By Kathy L. Collins
On Saturday, November 30, celebrate the success of small businesses in the greater Brandon area by visiting and shopping at local small businesses during Small Business Saturday.
Small Business Saturday was founded by American Express in 2010. The day is celebrated every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The day was officially recognized by the United States Senate in 2011. It is estimated by American Express that consumers spent 5.5 billion dollars in 2012.
On the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s Website, www.brandonchamber.com, it encourages everyone, whether merchant, shopper or both, to get out and be a partner to the local movement to celebrate and stimulate the small business economy of the greater Brandon area. Some businesses will offer promotions and discounts on Small Business Saturday.
Locally, many businesses are taking part including Orange Home Accessories located at 1046 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico and Kerby’s Nursery, located at 2311 S. Parsons Ave. in Seffner.
Debbie Ploor, the owner of Orange Home Accessories said, “Over the last few years, I have seen my sales grow on that day. Last year it was one of my best sales days, and the campaign brought support from both current and new customers. The Small Business Saturday emphasis on local shopping puts small businesses into the conversation about holiday shopping and that awareness is appreciated.”
Joey Bokor, owner of Kerby’s Nursery also said, “Shopping at a small business supports the people that live and work in your community.”
American Express estimates that when people shop at small, independent and locally-owned businesses, 52 percent of what is spent stays within the local economy.
Visit americanexpress.com/shopsmall to view a complete list of locally-owned businesses that will take part in Small Business Saturday. Checking the list often is encouraged; as the movement grows so does the list of participating local businesses.
The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce is also offering a list of member businesses that are taking part in this movement. So help spread the word and get out
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