Saturday, November 26 is Small Business Saturday – a national event celebrating America’s small businesses. In 2015, 95 million people went out to shop on Small Business Saturday, and this year I want Philadelphia to help increase that number.
Making purchases at local shops has a tangible impact on our economy. For every $100 spent at an independent business, $68 goes back into the local economy, compared to only $43 per $100 spent at a big box retailer. Independent businesses are more likely to use local services and purchase supplies from other local businesses. They are also better at creating sustainable, well-paying jobs for Philadelphia residents. All of these factors keep money pumping through the local economy at a higher rate and speed.
As the Director of Commerce for the City of Philadelphia, continued growth in our economy is always my priority. I want to see more Philadelphians employed. I want to see more small businesses opening and succeeding.
Small Business Saturday is just the start. I encourage Philadelphians to do some shopping along our commercial corridors this weekend, but I also want to see that throughout the year. It is on us to support our local businesses and ensure we are doing our part to keep Philadelphia’s economy healthy.
Harold T. Epps
Director of Commerce
City of Philadelphia