NEW YORK — After the Thanksgiving celebration, many begin to prepare for shopping in the long-awaited Black Friday and start acquiring the season’s gifts or those favorite items.
Amid the fudor, New Yorkers can wait one more day to support local small businesses that account for 98 percent of New York State’s economy and create millions of jobs, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday.
This is because this November 26 is celebrated Small Business Saturday and the Democrat along with other state agencies remind residents that now is the best time to remember the importance of investing in local neighborhoods, thus strengthening communities and keeping tax dollars within New York State. .
Small Business Saturday celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners and invites shoppers to visit local stores at the start of the busy holiday shopping season.
“Small Business Saturday It’s an opportunity for all New Yorkers to play a role in strengthening our economy by creating vibrant neighborhoods and keeping communities connected,” Governor Hochul said. “New York’s small businesses are at the heart of our economy, and because this community was one of the hardest hit at the height of the pandemic, my administration has been squarely focused on its recovery. I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of all these activities they have to offer and shop local this Saturday.”
The small business sector is a major contributor to the founding of New York’s economy, employing more than 40 percent of the state’s private sector workforce. Today, New York State has more than 549,000 small businesses employing more than three million people.
How to support small businesses every day
- Buy on site: make an effort to shop in small local stores rather than a large chain. By buying little, you stimulate your local economy as small business owners tend to buy nearby supplies and goods.
- Buy Gift Cards: Most small businesses, from your favorite restaurant, bar or coffee shop, to your neighborhood specialty store or local hair salon, offer gift cards or gift certificates. By purchasing gift cards, you’ll be injecting much-needed investment into these businesses well beyond the holiday season.
- Go to the local farmers market: Many outdoor farmers markets may be closed this time of year, but there are still plenty of one-of-a-kind offerings. From artisanal crafts to seasonal greenery, the local farmers market is a great place to support local small businesses.
- Pop by or order take out or delivery at your local cafe or restaurant: Don’t forget to tip well. Foodservice workers have borne the brunt of the pandemic. Many restaurants still offer home delivery.
- Provide positive reviews: If you’ve found a great product, food or service, or even a great promotion or deal, let your friends and family know. Don’t forget to leave a great review on your social networks. The best advertising is word of mouth.
- If you need to return, get a store credit instead of a refund if you can. This keeps the money within the small business and it all helps.
