Small Businesses Weigh In: Small Business Saturday Deals
Saturday will mark the second-annual Small Business Saturday initiative, a national push for consumers to skip major retailers in support of local businesses.
According to American Express, 89 million people are expected to shop at their local small businesses in honor of the idea. Last year, businesses saw a 28% increase in sales due to the campaign to shop local over 2009.
Here's what small business owners are offering their customers this Small Business Saturday:
All American Clothing Co. Arcanum, Ohio
Owner Lawson Nickol said this year his business is getting in on the holiday spirit by offering a “12 Days of Christmas discount” on different products each day. The company, which sells premium style jeans as well as t-shirts, jackets and accessories, is hoping the deals will keep customers coming back for more bargains.
"We have also discounted to a number of long-term and loyal customers based upon metrics in the computer," Nickol said.
All American Clothing Company is expecting a 15% bump in sales over last year with its Black Friday and Small Business Saturday offerings.
SantiFashions, Norristown, Penn.
Owner Manisha Baman said that her consignment business, which sells new and gently-used traditional Indian clothing, will be getting in on the holiday shopping craze despite the fact that major Indian holidays are over.
On her website, customers will find a four-day special offer for those who shop on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday or Cyber Monday. By entering coupon code SBSAT2011 at checkout, 20% off and free shipping will be applied to all purchases made between Nov. 25, through Nov. 28. "We are hoping to reach potential customers through Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. A video has been posted on YouTube to encourage customers to support us on Small Business Saturday, " Baman said.
Carousel Designs, Atlanta, Ga.
Co-owner Allan Sicat said that while their baby bedding business did not take advantage of last year's holiday shopping rush, this year they plan to offer deals. For Small Business Saturday, Carousel Designs will offer free shipping on any orders made, according to Sicat.
"We think Small Business Saturday is a great concept. As a small business, it's nice to get recognition via a nation-wide campaign," he said.