Retailers Get Set For Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday, one of the biggest moments in the retail calendar for small, independent businesses, takes place on 7 December 2019.

This year, the big day will be marked across the country as stores put on customer events, councils support the cause by offering free parking in local centres and high streets roll out the red carpet for shoppers eager to find unique gifts, stock up on Christmas food and drink – and treat themselves to some festive indulgences in cafés and restaurants. 

Independent research by Toluna for American Express, the principal supporter of Small Business Saturday, found that last year, the public spent £812 million in independent retailers on the big day itself.* 

The research also revealed that cafés were the most-visited independent outlets on the big day with over a quarter of consumers who shopped small visiting one for a festive pick-me-up. Butchers and bakers also saw an influx of shoppers on Small Business Saturday. 

Most-visited retailers on Small Business Saturday in 2018**

1) Cafe 27%

2) Butcher 24%

3) Baker 20%

4) Market 17%

5) Restaurant 15%

6) Independent grocery store 15%

7) Greengrocer 15%

8) Independent convenience store 14%

9) Health and beauty shop 10%

10) Cinema 9%

Of those who took part in Small Business Saturday, over half (57%) said they spent more than they would normally in small businesses and approximately a quarter (24%) said they spent half as much again as they would normally.

American Express is principal supporter of Small Business Saturday and is incentivising Cardmembers to support their local small shops with its Shop Small offer, awarding them £5 credit when they spend £10 or more in participating small businesses.

Source : Small Business Saturday and American Express

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