Small Business Saturday 2025: Shop Local, Spark a Big Change

Every November, right between the chaos of Black Friday and the click-frenzy of Cyber Monday, comes a quieter revolution: Small Business Saturday (SBS).

What started as a simple idea in 2010 — encouraging shoppers to support their neighborhood stores — has now grown into a $17 billion movement that fuels local economies and strengthens communities.

At OneHubPOS, we work with small businesses every single day. But SBS is a reminder that when you shop small, you’re doing something much bigger.

What is Small Business Saturday?

Launched by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday is all about choosing local over large chains. It falls on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and shines a spotlight on independently owned shops, cafés, restaurants, and service providers.

From the very first year — when 103 million shoppers took part — to today, the numbers have only grown. In 2023 alone, Americans spent an incredible $17 billion in local businesses on SBS.

A Quick Look Back: How Small Business Saturday Took Off?

Over the years, Small Business Saturday has gone from a spark to a movement that fuels billions in spending. What began in 2010 as a boost for small businesses has since seen explosive growth, national recognition, and resilience—even during the pandemic.

Why It Matters?

For decades, holiday shopping meant big-box stores and global e-commerce giants. Small businesses often got drowned out. SBS changed that — it gave local owners a platform and reminded shoppers that every latte, gift, or meal bought locally keeps money in the community.

But here’s the best part: Small Business Saturday isn’t just one day anymore.

It’s become a year-round mindset, fueled by:

• Social media buzz – Shoppers proudly post their finds with #ShopSmall.
  
• E-commerce tools – Local charm now reaches national audiences online.
  
• Digital payments & cloud POS – Helping small shops compete with the big players.
  
  

During 2020 alone, small businesses reported a 300% spike in online sales over the SBS weekend. That’s proof of resilience, agility, and community support.

Beyond Shopping: The Ripple Effect

When you shop small, you’re not just buying a product, you’re fueling a ripple effect:

✨ Local jobs – Every dollar spent helps keep neighbors employed.
✨ Neighborhood revival – Thriving shops bring life back to communities.
✨ Innovation & creativity – Small businesses are where big ideas are born.
✨ Sustainable choices – Local sourcing means lower carbon footprints.

5 Ways to Make the Most of Small Business Saturday 2025

1. Plan ahead – Make a list of local shops you want to visit.
   
2. Shop & share – Post your purchases with #ShopSmall to spread the love.
   
3. Think beyond retail – Book services, grab takeout, or buy gift cards.
   
4. Leave a review – A five-star rating can do wonders for a local business.
   
5. Keep it going – Support small businesses year-round, not just one day.
   

OneHubPOS Champions Small Businesses Every Day

Small Business Saturday may happen once a year, but for us, every day is SBS. From corner cafés and liquor stores to boutiques and family-owned restaurants, we exist to make small businesses stronger.

📊 Smarter insights – Data that helps owners make better decisions.

⚖️ A level playing field – Enterprise-grade tools at small-business prices.

🎉 A celebration of entrepreneurship – Because local dreamers deserve big support.

This Small Business Saturday…

Take a stroll down your main street. Order from the restaurant that remembers your name. Pick up a gift from the boutique that curates with care. Share their story online.

Because when you shop small, you help build something big: stronger communities, thriving neighborhoods, and a future where local businesses shine.