Small Business Saturday a Chance to Give Back to Local Businesses Going Above and Beyond Expectations

By Kris Norton

Jasper – Heading into the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, Jasper Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nancy Eckerle says that we have plenty to be thankful for in our local businesses – with a chance to support them this weekend.

With nation-wide sales and advertisements, Thanksgiving and Black Friday have become synonymous with savings. Though, there is a newer, more localized day dedicated to local businesses: Small Business Saturday.

According to USChamber.com, the holiday was initially launched by American Express in 2010 before the U.S. Senate passed a resolution recognizing Small Business Saturday in 2011.

Given the increased online shopping options and ‘doorbuster’ deals at big box stores across the country, Eckerle says that it’s increasingly important “To focus on that small, independent business owner who really can’t compete with the Black Friday specials and sales.

“But, they can bring such a better element to your shopping experience with better customer service, they have a very informed sales staff, so they can actually help you decide on what items to buy. You know them when you walk in their store.”

Though it may be tempting to save a buck while crossing items off an extensive holiday shopping list, Eckerle says, this is a community’s chance to give back to local entrepreneurs whom adapted and aided customers in a difficult, pandemic-driven, past year and a half.

“They’ve all gone through some very tough times and they’ve gone out of their way to service their customer,” Eckerle said. “They’ve all become very good at Facebook, and posting things on Facebook, delivering items to your vehicle and maybe even your house if it’s more convenient for you.”

In Jasper, Dubois County, and the United States as a whole, Main Street businesses will be looking to extend their holiday hours. Eckerle says consulting business’ Facebook pages, websites, and even calling ahead is the best way to ensure consumers can support their favorite local businesses this Small Business Saturday.