We’ve got something for you to celebrate this holiday season, and we’re not referring to Christmas! Each year, the United Kingdom celebrates Small Business Saturday to remind us all that there is a better way to spend our money than on big box stores. In 2022, Small Business Saturday in the UK falls on Saturday 3rd December.
From nourishing the local economy to finding the best unique gifts for the holidays, there are many benefits to supporting small businesses. You see, thriving small businesses contribute to a healthy local culture and build a positive reputation for the area.
Here are four direct ways you can significantly support your small businesses, both local and digital, this holiday season!
Shop Small Businesses For Gifts
Of course, choosing to shop local at Christmas for your holiday gifts is probably the top way you can show your support! Local shops are known for having higher-quality selections than the big box stores or generic online retailers.
In addition, you can always ask small businesses if they have gift cards for purchase. Most businesses these days have some form of gift card or gift certificate options. Who doesn’t love a gift card to a local coffee shop or book store in their stocking?
Post Your Support on Social Media
Supporting small businesses doesn’t always have to involve pulling out your wallet. Have you previously purchased from a small business and loved the product or service? Is there a local shop that went above and beyond to bring the holiday cheer this year?
Giving that business a shoutout on social media could help attract more customers to that location! You can tweet about your experience on Twitter or even snap a picture for Instagram; either way, don’t forget to take the small business!
Leave a Glowing Review
According to BrightLocal, “87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses in 2020.” That means that over 8 out of 10 people conduct a search for reviews before deciding to shop at a local business! In this day and age, with technology constantly at our fingertips, this statistic may not be surprising.
However, it still points out to us the importance of remembering to leave a glowing review when we witness great service at a small business. Leaving a review will show visitors and other locals that they can expect a lovely experience at that particular store.
Subscribe To a Service
These are tougher times than ever for small businesses to operate in. With energy bills rising and the cost of inflation biting, small business needs your support.
Many businesses will offer a subscription for a product or service where you pay a certain amount per month. Others will look at crowdfunding or will have a Patreon.
All of this helps give small businesses a steady income over the tricky winter months. Even subscribing to their email list can make all the difference!
Want more ideas for how you can shop local at Christmas while showing your full support for small businesses? Visit the Small Business Saturday website and click on the “I’m A Customer” tab for more tips!
