NEW YORK — After the Thanksgiving celebration, many begin to prepare to go shopping in the long-awaited Black Friday and begin to acquire the gifts of the season or those favorite items.
Amid the fudor, New Yorkers can wait one more day to support local small businesses that account for 98% 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 reminds residents that this is the best time to remember the importance of investing in local neighborhoods, thereby 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 is an opportunity for all New Yorkers to play a role in strengthening our economy, creating vibrant neighborhoods and keeping communities connected,” said Governor Hochul. “New York’s small businesses are at the core of our economy , and because this community was one of the hardest hit at the height of the pandemic, my administration has focused squarely on its recovery. I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of all these businesses have to offer and shop local this Saturday.”
The small business sector is a major contributor to the foundation 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 business businesses that employ more than three million people.
How to support small businesses every day
- Buy locally: make an effort to shop at small local stores rather than a large chain. By buying little, you are stimulating your local economy as small business owners tend to buy supplies and goods nearby.
- 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 will inject the necessary investment into these businesses well beyond the holiday season.
- Head to your local farmers market: Many outdoor farmers markets may be indoors this time of year, but there are still plenty of unique and one-of-a-kind offerings. From handmade crafts to seasonal greenery, the local farmers market is a great place to support local small businesses.
- Drop in or order takeout or delivery at your local bar or restaurant: Don’t forget to tip well. Restaurant workers bore the brunt of the pandemic. Many restaurants still offer curbside 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. Do not forget to leave an excellent review on your social networks. The best is word of mouth.
- If you have to make a return, take a store credit instead of a refund, if you can. This keeps the money inside the small business and everything helps.