American Express is encouraging residents to shop local this weekend.
Each November, the company selects a Saturday to entice shoppers to shop locally. They call the event Small Business Saturday. The theory is that this will cause more money to be circulated into local businesses and shops to keep money in the community instead of online or through other sources of commerce.
“It’s a national initiative by American Express that’s done pretty well in Chapel Hill, so we’re excited,” said Bobby Funk, assistant director for the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership.
This year, Chapel Hill is looking forward to a good turnout, as Small Business Saturday is nestled in between popular shopping days — Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
One participant, Dina Porter Boutique owner Susan Coker, said she participates in the event every year.
“This is a way for people to realize that shopping locally helps everyone,” Coker said. “It’s our way of opening our doors and showing the community that we are here and are always willing to help them.”
Coker said her shop has participated every year since 2010 and typically sees an increase in local revenues during this time.
She also describes the day as a “win-win” for everyone, as American Express cardholders are given a $10 incentive for each store they shop at, for up to three participating local stores. But shoppers with all brands of cards are welcome and can benefit from the "shopping small" atmosphere.
Though American Express makes this Saturday known to its clientele, there are several groups that are still unaware of the event.
