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By Lauren Sloan

Business Development Manager

FRANKLIN

What a year. Full of moments of both uncertainty and human ingenuity. Presumably, most Americans are feeling that the Christmas season cannot come fast enough. Let the countdown begin, with an extra reason to look forward to the end of the year: The nationwide Small Business Saturday campaign is celebrating a whirlwind of a year with the theme of ‘Spread Joy, Shop Small.’

If you’re a little late to the shopping party, allow us to expand: We’re all well versed with the famous shopping day known as ‘Black Friday,’ the Small Business Saturday campaign was founded to strategically support local shops the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Participating localities designate Neighborhood Champions, community organizations that coordinate events, activities and marketing efforts for this special day of the year. Arguably the most impactful element of the campaign comes from customers being educated on the importance of shopping locally throughout the year.

In the United States, an average of two-thirds of every dollar ($0.67) spent at a small business stays in that local community and small businesses employ 47.3 percent of the employees in the private sector. That means shopping small could help bring things like better schools, smoother roads, and new jobs to neighborhoods across the country. Franklin Southampton Economic Development exists to help provide a meaningful future for the families and residents of Franklin and Southampton. Our team is proud to identify as a Small Business Saturday Neighborhood Champion, advocating and supporting the prosperous small business community.

The heartbeat of our local community can be found within small businesses. The hard work, perseverance and determination each business owner must execute for a business to be successful is inspiring, yet quite difficult. These owners pour their heart and soul into running their businesses every day. This holiday season may look different than traditional years, but choosing joy during challenges is a decision our local business owners consistently face. Choose to #shopsmallFS for as many service and retail goods you possibly can. We love our local business community, and champion their area investment each day. Mark your calendars for Saturday, Nov. 28, and be on the lookout for day-of deals and giveaways from your favorite local businesses.