Canada’s small businesses are counting on community support this Small Business Saturday® as they face challenges like weakened consumer demand during the holiday season and a Canada Post Strike.
Small Farm Canada is piggy backing on this idea, and encouraging those in the agriculture community to support local farms and agribusinesses on Small Business Saturday.
A recent survey shows that 53% of small businesses are experiencing reduced customer spending, making the upcoming holiday shopping period crucial for their success.
Small Business Saturday, taking place on November 30, immediately following Black Friday, is an annual initiative organized by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).
The campaign urges Canadians to shop locally and intentionally, supporting their neighbourhood stores and boosting local economies.
Support businesses like the farms and agribusinesses below which we recently discovered at the Advancing Women in Agriculture East Conference.
- Saunders Farm and Saunder Cider
- Nurture Growth Fertilizer
- Hereward Farms Inc.- Lavendar skincare products
We support these enterprises at Small Farm Canada, and we encourage those in the agriculture community to make a special effort to support agriculture on Small Business Saturday.
“It’s been a tough year for small businesses across Canada, but we have a chance for a strong finish as the crucial holiday shopping season kicks off,” said Ryan Mallough, CFIB’s vice-president of legislative affairs. "Where you shop can make a real difference. For every dollar you spend at a small business, 66 cents stays in the local economy. It’s not just a win for the business, it’s a win for the whole community.”
A survey by Angus Reid Group revealed that 26% of Canadians plan to shop primarily in-store for the holidays, while 34% prefer online shopping. However, with 48% of small businesses struggling to compete with large online retailers, community support is essential.
The study also highlighted that 46% of Canadians intend to spend less on holiday shopping this year, with an average budget of $900. Most of this amount, approximately $544, will go towards gifts.
“Small Business Saturday is an amazing opportunity to find the perfect gift at a great price, as many businesses will be offering sales and special offers this weekend,” said Mallough. “This weekend is a great chance to explore your local businesses.”
For resources and more information on Small Business Saturday, visit SmallBusinessEveryDay.ca. Supporting local businesses this holiday season helps ensure a thriving local economy for the years to come.