On Small Business Saturday, held on November 25, 2023, local businesses in Dickinson are celebrating by offering a range of discounts and special promotions to attract shoppers. This initiative, which began in 2010, aims to encourage consumers to support small enterprises in their communities, emphasizing the importance of shopping local.
Festive Offers in Downtown Dickinson
Downtown Dickinson is bustling with activity as several small business owners roll out festive promotions. Studio 9 Designs, which recently relocated to a central downtown space, is providing complimentary mimosas and iced sugar cookies to visitors. In celebration of their ninth anniversary, the store is also offering a generous 29% discount on all Christmas décor, furniture, and wall hangings.
Another local favorite, Faithful Blend, known for its inviting community atmosphere and a diverse menu featuring custom lattes made with Dark Canyon coffee, has teamed up with ND Construction to host a drawing for a $100 gift card, encouraging more patrons to enjoy their offerings.
Just a stone’s throw away, 701 Chic Boutique has made a name for itself with its motto, “Confident. Curvy. Chic.” The boutique stocks elegant clothing and unique gifts. Owner Liz is celebrating the occasion by giving each visitor a gift bag and coupons for January purchases, further incentivizing holiday shopping.
Across the street, Saucy Blonde Boutique is running a “buy one, get one 30% off” special, adding to the festive atmosphere as shoppers explore their extensive offerings. These promotions are designed not just to attract customers but to create a memorable shopping experience.
Competition from Major Retailers
This year, the landscape for local shopping is notably competitive. Dickinson has welcomed two major retailers, TJ Maxx and Harbor Freight, which opened their doors in recent months. Traffic data from the Stark Development Corporation indicates a significant increase in foot traffic, with Harbor Freight alone attracting over 130,000 visitors since its opening. Similarly, TJ Maxx has seen a marked increase in unique visitors, reflecting changing shopping habits in the area.
The presence of these larger retailers presents both a challenge and an opportunity for small businesses. While they may draw shoppers looking for deals, local establishments are leveraging their unique offerings and community ties to maintain customer loyalty. The economic impact of Small Business Saturday remains significant. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), the event generated an estimated $22 billion in spending at local merchants in 2024.
Additionally, the SBA reports that the 36 million small businesses in the United States represent 99% of all businesses in the country. A recent survey from Teneo, conducted on behalf of American Express, suggests that as much as 20% of a small business’s annual revenue can come from Small Business Saturday alone. This underscores the importance of the day for local economies.
As Dickinson embraces the spirit of Small Business Saturday, both shoppers and business owners are optimistic about the future. While local businesses face stiff competition, their community-focused approaches and festive offerings are helping to ensure that the tradition of supporting small businesses remains strong.
