Making The Most of Small Business Saturday 2025
Every November, small businesses across the country gear up for one of the biggest shopping days of the year, and one that’s especially meaningful for local communities. Small Business Saturday takes place this year on November 29, 2025, and it’s more than just a retail event. It’s a celebration of the creativity and relationships that make small businesses the heartbeat of local economies.
Launched in 2010, Small Business Saturday was created to spotlight the importance of small businesses. It falls between Black Friday and Cyber Monday — two shopping days often dominated by big-box retailers — and serves as a reminder of the value of shopping locally.
According to research from the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up more than 99%opens in a new window of all U.S. companies. When customers choose to shop locally, more of every dollar stays within the community which means new jobs, stronger schools and thriving main streets. For small business owners, the day offers more than increased foot traffic. It’s an opportunity to introduce new customers to what makes your business unique, strengthen relationships with loyal patrons, and set the stage for a strong finish to the year.
Preparation is key. With planning, your business can stand out — not just on November 29, but throughout the holiday season. Consider these steps:
1. Create a plan for visibility.
Think about how you’ll attract attention leading up to the big day. Update your website and social media with your Small Business Saturday hours, promotions, and photos of your products or services. Local hashtags like #ShopSmall or #SmallBizSaturday can help increase your reach. If you have a storefront, make it festive. Window displays and signage can make a strong first impression on shoppers exploring your area.
2. Partner with neighboring businesses.
Collaboration is a hallmark of successful small business communities. Join forces with other local shops or restaurants to create a neighborhood-wide experience. You might coordinate extended hours, co-host an open house, or organize a prize drawing for customers who visit multiple participating locations. When small businesses support one another, everyone benefits.
3. Offer something memorable.
Shoppers love an experience that feels personal. Give people more than a purchase. Give them a moment. Whether it’s a free cup of coffee, a small keepsake or a product demonstration, memorable touches can create lasting impressions and turn one-time shoppers into loyal customers.
4. Prepare your team.
The excitement of the day can bring larger crowds and high expectations. Make sure staff members are ready for an increase in foot traffic and online orders. Review inventory, ensure systems are running smoothly, and encourage your team to share in the enthusiasm of welcoming new customers. A motivated team can turn a busy shopping day into a great experience for everyone who walks through your door.
5. Optimize for online shoppers.
Even if your business relies primarily on in-person sales, many customers start their journey online. Update your Google Business Profile, verify your hours, and ensure your website and checkout process work smoothly. Highlight any Small Business Saturday promotions in your email communications or social media posts. A strong online presence helps customers find you even when they can’t make it into the store.
The benefits of Small Business Saturday don’t have to end when the day is over. Use the attention it brings as a springboard for future engagement.
- Follow up with new customers. Send a thank-you email or handwritten card to those who made a purchase. Include an invitation to join your mailing list or follow you on social media.
- Share your story. Post photos or short videos recapping your day. Celebrate your team, thank your customers, and show your community pride.
- Reflect and refine. After the event, gather feedback from staff and customers. What worked well? What could be improved next year? Small insights can lead to big improvements.
Small businesses often have stories that large retailers can’t replicate. Maybe you started your business to fill a gap in your neighborhood, continue a family tradition, or share a skill you love. Those stories are powerful. Consider sharing yours in your marketing efforts such as a social media post to remind customers that shopping small supports real people doing meaningful work.
Customers often want to support small businesses but need reminders or ideas for how to do so. Leading up to Small Business Saturday, consider these messages of encouragement:
- Shop local before heading online.
- Purchase gift cards from favorite neighborhood spots.
- Share their experiences on social media.
- Leave positive reviews for local businesses they love.
To read the full article visit Commcercebank.com.