As the rush of Black Friday shoppers winds down tonight, small business owners across the country will be gearing up for Small Business Saturday. Now in its fourth year, the American Express marketing program promotes shopping local and patronizing brick and mortar shops on Main Street.
According to a survey sponsored by the National Federation of Independent Business and American Express, nearly 70% of small businesses are planning to offer deals or discounts this Saturday. In another survey by Constant Contact, participating small businesses cited increased awareness of their business, new customers and a boost in sales as the major reasons for taking part in the program.
But not all small businesses are so on board. A small business trade association, Main Street Alliance, launched a counter campaign that objects to the swipe fees and other business practices of major credit card companies. The organization wants to encourage shoppers to pay with cash when possible while shopping at local businesses.
As a small business owner, what are your thoughts on the Small Business Saturday campaign? Is your business participating?
