At Unbroker, we’re passionate about supporting local economies. That’s why we’re excited to explore American Express’s Shop Small initiative.
This program empowers consumers to make a real difference in their communities by shopping at small businesses. Let’s dive into how you can participate in Shop Small with American Express and boost your local economy.
Why Shopping Small Matters
Boosting Local Economies
Shopping small isn’t just about supporting local businesses-it’s about building stronger, more vibrant communities. When you choose to spend your money at small, local businesses, you directly contribute to the economic health of your neighborhood.
Small businesses form the backbone of local economies. The U.S. Small Business Administration reports that small businesses created 17.3 million net new jobs from 1995 to 2021, accounting for 62.7% of net jobs created since 1995. Your purchases at these establishments keep more money within your community. A study by the American Independent Business Alliance found that on average, $100 spent at local independents generated $45 of local spending, compared to $14 for a big-box chain.
Creating Jobs and Fostering Innovation
Small businesses are job creators. They provide employment opportunities for local residents, often in specialized roles that larger corporations might not offer. These businesses also tend to be more innovative. They adapt quickly to changing market conditions and customer needs, introducing new products and services that keep the local economy dynamic and competitive.
Unique Products and Personal Connections
One of the most rewarding aspects of shopping small is the unique products and experiences you encounter. Unlike big box stores, small businesses often offer handcrafted, locally-sourced items you won’t find anywhere else. You’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in the creativity and passion of your neighbors.
Moreover, shopping small fosters personal connections. Small business owners and their employees often know their customers by name, providing personalized service that’s increasingly rare in today’s retail landscape. These relationships strengthen community bonds and create a sense of belonging that’s hard to replicate in larger, impersonal stores.
The Unbroker Approach
At Unbroker, we see parallels between the value of shopping small and our approach to business sales. Just as local businesses offer personalized experiences, we provide tailored support for business sellers. Our transparent, low-cost options eliminate high brokerage fees, allowing more value to stay with the business owners-much like how shopping small keeps more money in local communities.
As we move forward to explore American Express’s Shop Small initiative, it’s clear that supporting small businesses isn’t just a trend-it’s a powerful way to shape the economic future of our communities. For those looking to boost their online presence, small businesses can leverage various digital strategies to compete effectively in today’s market.
How American Express Empowers Small Businesses
The Shop Small Program: A Game-Changer
American Express’s Shop Small initiative revolutionizes small businesses and local economies. This program has transformed into a powerful movement that celebrates small businesses and helps communities thrive and stay vibrant.
The program’s core focuses on redirecting consumer spending towards small, local businesses. American Express cardholders earn rewards for shopping at participating small businesses, creating a mutually beneficial situation. The program reaches its peak during Small Business Saturday, held annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. According to the American Express 2022 Small Business Economic Impact Study, with every dollar spent at a small business in the US, 68 cents stays in the local community.
Boosting Small Business Success
For small businesses, the Shop Small program offers substantial benefits. American Express provides free marketing materials and online tools to help businesses attract customers. The company also offers a Shop Small Map, simplifying the process for consumers to find participating local businesses.
The initiative also helps small businesses compete with larger retailers, especially during the critical holiday shopping season.
Consumer Participation: Making a Difference
Consumers can easily participate in Shop Small. American Express cardholders simply use their cards at participating small businesses to earn rewards. However, the impact extends beyond personal benefits. Choosing to shop small directly contributes to local job creation and economic stability.
To maximize participation, consumers can utilize the Shop Small Map to find local businesses. They can also spread the word on social media using hashtags like #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday, amplifying the movement’s reach.
The Ripple Effect of Shopping Small
The Shop Small initiative creates a ripple effect in local communities. When consumers choose to shop at small businesses, they support not just the business owners, but also their employees, suppliers, and the broader local economy. This support can lead to improved infrastructure, better schools, and a higher quality of life for everyone in the community.
Digital Tools for Small Businesses
American Express provides digital tools to help small businesses thrive in the modern marketplace. These tools include leveraging video content reels and employing content marketing strategies. By utilizing these digital resources, small businesses can expand their reach and compete more effectively in an increasingly digital world.
As we move forward, let’s explore some practical tips for maximizing your Shop Small experience and making the most of this powerful initiative.
How to Maximize Your Shop Small Impact
Explore Your Local Business Landscape
Start your Shop Small journey by investigating your neighborhood. Walk down main street or use online directories to find unique small businesses. The American Express Shop Small Map serves as an excellent resource to locate participating businesses in your area. This tool helps you uncover new places and support businesses that are part of the initiative.
Don’t restrict yourself to retail shops. Seek out local service providers, restaurants, and artisans. Each purchase at these establishments directly fuels your community’s economic engine.
Optimize American Express Rewards
American Express cardholders can amplify their Shop Small experience. Shop Small started in 2010, when Amex created Small Business Saturday® to encourage support for small businesses and their communities.
Check your American Express account often for special offers. These might include statement credits or bonus points for shopping at specific small businesses. You support local businesses and stretch your dollar further when you use these promotions.
Harness Social Media for Greater Impact
Your social media voice can significantly influence others’ shopping habits. After you visit a small business, share your experience on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Use hashtags like #ShopSmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday to join the broader conversation.
Write reviews on platforms like Yelp or Google. Positive reviews can dramatically boost a small business’s visibility and attract new customers. Your words could tip the scales for someone choosing between a small local business and a large chain store.
Engage in Community Events
Many communities organize events to promote local businesses. Participate in these gatherings (such as street fairs, farmers markets, or local festivals). These events often showcase small businesses and provide opportunities to discover new local gems.
You can also organize your own small business crawl with friends or family. This turns shopping small into a fun, social activity while supporting multiple local businesses in one outing.
Educate Others About Shopping Small
Spread the word about the importance of shopping small. Share interesting facts about the economic impact of small businesses with your friends and family. For example, since the first quarter of 2021, small businesses have accounted for 53 percent of 12.2 million total net job creation across all firm sizes.
Your advocacy can inspire others to join the Shop Small movement, creating a ripple effect of support for local economies. Consider sharing creative marketing strategies that small businesses use to attract customers, which can help raise awareness and appreciation for their efforts.
Final Thoughts
The Shop Small movement, championed by American Express, transforms communities through positive change. This powerful initiative invests in neighborhood futures, creates jobs, and fosters innovation. The Shop Small Business Amex program amplifies these effects, providing tools and incentives that empower consumers to make impactful spending choices.
At Unbroker, we recognize the value of supporting small businesses. Our transparent, low-cost options for selling businesses mirror the Shop Small movement’s goal of keeping more money in local communities. We strive to empower business owners by eliminating high brokerage fees, allowing more value to stay with them.
Your decision to shop small today shapes the community of tomorrow. The next time you make a purchase, consider its impact and look for that small business around the corner. The Shop Small movement builds stronger, more connected communities for generations to come.
