14 Ways to Make Small Business Saturday Count
Updated: Monday, 18th November 2024. | Original Publish Date: November 26th, 2023
In the ever-competitive retail landscape, where U.S. corporate giants loom large, Small Business Saturday stands as a critical beacon of support for local entrepreneurs. This annual shopping event, first celebrated in 2010, has grown into a vital tradition for communities across the U.S., championing the unique offerings of small businesses. In 2011, the U.S. Senate officially recognized Small Business Saturday as a way to drive economic growth and bring attention to the value of small businesses.
For 2024, Small Business Saturday promises to be an even more pivotal moment for local businesses as they recover and evolve in a harsh post-pandemic economy. It offers an opportunity not just for one-day sales but for building lasting customer relationships and generating long-term growth. With this in mind, dive into these 14 effective strategies to help your small business thrive—not only on Small Business Saturday but all year long.
FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Leverage Social Media to Boost Visibility
In 2024, social media is still the most powerful tool to connect with your audience. Small businesses should actively promote their Small Business Saturday offers through social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Using the right hashtags (like #SmallBusinessSaturday, #ShopSmall, and #SupportLocal) can increase reach. Encourage customers to do the same by sharing their purchases and experiences online, tagging your business to enhance visibility.
2. Offer Gift Cards & Certificates
Gift cards are a win-win: customers get to choose their own items, and small businesses get cash flow in advance. They’re perfect for last-minute gifts or for those hard-to-buy-for friends and family. Selling gift cards online is an increasingly popular option for small businesses to reach a broader customer base.
3. Offer Limited Time Promotions & Bundles
To stand out on Small Business Saturday, create exclusive offers or limited-time bundles that customers can’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s a special “bundle deal” or an early-bird discount, these promotions can create urgency and excitement. Make sure to market these deals ahead of time so your community knows what’s in store.
4. Collaborate With Other Local Businesses
Collaboration is key. Instead of competing, local businesses can team up for events, cross-promotions, or shared marketing efforts. Consider hosting a joint sale or event, such as a holiday market, pop-up shops, or a co-hosted workshop. A collaborative event draws a larger crowd and helps businesses gain new customers.
5. Host In-Store or Virtual Events
If you’re a small business owner, use Small Business Saturday to host an in-store or virtual event. Product demonstrations, workshops, or live product unveilings allow you to showcase your business’s personality and engage with your customers in a deeper way. For example, if you're a boutique owner, you could host a "shop the look" event, giving personal styling tips as customers shop your clothing.
6. Support Local Charities and Causes
Aligning your business with local charities or social causes adds purpose to your efforts. Consider offering a percentage of sales on Small Business Saturday to a local nonprofit. This gives customers an extra incentive to shop with you, knowing their purchases support both the business and the community.
7. Engage Influencers and Community Leaders
Local influencers, bloggers, or community leaders can bring significant exposure to your business. Reach out to those with strong local followings and offer them an exclusive preview of your Small Business Saturday offerings. A simple Instagram post or shoutout can dramatically increase foot traffic.
8. Improve Your Website and Online Shopping Experience
Ensure your website is up-to-date and optimized for mobile in time for Small Business Saturday. Many consumers will be browsing for deals online before heading out to shops, so make sure your site is user-friendly and ready for any online sales or special promotions.
9. Offer Free Delivery or Local Pickup Options
In today’s competitive retail market, free delivery or local pickup options are highly valued by customers. If you offer these services, make sure to promote them leading up to Small Business Saturday. If you don’t have an online store, consider partnering with a local delivery service to make this possible.
10. Create a Loyalty Program
Introduce or highlight a loyalty program that encourages customers to keep coming back beyond Small Business Saturday. Whether it’s a punch card, points-based rewards, or a VIP membership, incentivizing return business can help turn one-time shoppers into lifelong customers.
11. Utilize Local Media & Press
Local newspapers, magazines, radio stations, and podcasts often seek out businesses to feature during the holiday season. Reach out to local journalists to see if they’re interested in covering your Small Business Saturday events or promotions. Getting featured in a local media outlet can significantly boost visibility.
12. Create a Personalized Experience
Small businesses often stand out because they can offer personalized service. Use Small Business Saturday as an opportunity to engage with your customers directly. Offer custom orders, personal shopping consultations, or personalized gift wrapping. Small touches like these can make customers feel special and more likely to return.
13. Volunteer or Offer Your Services to Small Businesses
If you're a service provider (graphic designer, web developer, marketing consultant), offer your skills pro bono to help other local businesses prepare for Small Business Saturday. Not only does this help fellow entrepreneurs, but it can also create lasting partnerships and increase your network.
FOR SHOPPERS/CUSTOMERS
14. Shop Local & Shop Early
The best way to support local businesses is to spend your dollars at their shops and on their online stores. Visit your community’s businesses in the weeks leading up to Small Business Saturday. Consider doing your holiday shopping with them—whether it’s a cozy café, a boutique, or a family-owned bookstore. Also, head to online stores to take advantage of bundles and holiday sales. Early support can help businesses prepare for the busiest shopping weekend of the year.
Small Business Saturday: A Day to Celebrate, A Year to Support
As we approach Small Business Saturday 2024, remember that it’s not just about spending money on a single day; it’s about fostering a culture of support that sustains businesses year-round. From shopping local to promoting your favorite finds, from collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs to offering your professional services, there are countless ways to get involved.
This year, let’s not only celebrate the uniqueness of our local businesses on Small Business Saturday but continue supporting them long after the holiday season is over. Together, we can build stronger communities, elevate small businesses, and keep the spirit of entrepreneurship thriving for years to come!