Discover How Small Business Saturday Can Boost Your Local NJ Economy!

The Holiday Shopping Season Begins

Black Friday marks the start of the holiday shopping season. While many are flocking to online giants like Amazon or heading to malls such as Garden State Plaza or American Dream, consider the impact of shopping locally.

Support Local Economies with Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is on November 30, providing a perfect opportunity to support local businesses in New Jersey. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses constitute 99.6% of New Jersey's economy.

Small Business Statistics

• 1.9 million people employed by small businesses, accounting for 48.8% of the workforce.
• 168,060 businesses have between 1-19 employees.
• 21,705 businesses range from 20-499 employees.
• In 2021, $3 billion in loans supported businesses with revenues up to $1 million.

A recent Bankrate survey revealed 50% of Americans plan to shop on Small Business Saturday. Vincent Vicari from the New Jersey Small Business Development Center emphasizes that small businesses are about creating value and providing a personal touch that larger retailers cannot match.

Revitalized Downtowns in New Jersey

In the 1980s, New Jersey downtowns experienced a decline as shoppers moved to suburban malls. However, today’s consumers are gravitating back to vibrant downtowns, which have now revitalized, especially in towns like South Orange, Maplewood, and Montclair. For example, Hackensack has recently been recognized as a "Great Downtown" by the American Planners Association.

Events Celebrating Small Business Saturday

Many towns across North Jersey are hosting unique events on November 30 to promote local businesses:

• Closter: Holiday shopping event at the Senior Center.
• Fair Lawn: Free tote bag giveaway and local artist pop-up shops.
• Englewood: First Annual French American Holiday Market on December 7.
• Mahwah: Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair at the Elks Lodge.
• Montclair: Small Business Saturday event featuring kids’ crafts and local vendors.
• Nutley: Participating businesses will host a sixth annual egg hunt with deals.
• South Orange: Street fair with local crafts and outdoor ice skating.

By shopping small this season, you not only find unique gifts but also contribute to the local economy and community growth.
Daniel Munoz covers business, consumer affairs, labor, and the economy for NorthJersey.com and The Record.