COLUSA, CA (MPG) — Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29 brought modest but meaningful traffic to a handful of Colusa County shops, as local owners joined a national push to keep holiday spending close to home. Participation was lighter this year, but the businesses that took part leaned into specials, displays and invitations to browse.
Nationally, Small Business Saturday has generated more than $220 billion in spending for independent retailers, restaurants and service businesses since it began in 2010, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBA says small firms make up 99 percent of all businesses in the country, represent about 36 million enterprises and employ nearly half of the private workforce while contributing about half of the nation’s GDP.
prepares for holiday shoppers on Small Business Saturday. Photo by Lloyd Green Jr.
“With the economy rebounding from forty-year high inflation, there’s never been a better time to shop small in support of local businesses,” SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said in a recent statement. She said small businesses employ half of the private sector workforce and generate nearly half of GDP, so spending with them “invests in the workers and job creators who power our own communities.”
American Express created Small Business Saturday in 2010, and the SBA has co-sponsored the event since 2011. American Express survey data shows that small business owners expect nearly 20 percent of their annual revenue to come from sales on the day, and estimated spending at local merchants in 2024 reached about $22 billion.
In Arbuckle, Alsco-Geyer Ace Hardware opened with in-store specials, while High Noon Guns and Ammo set up for the gift-giving season.
“We have something for everyone,” owner Diana Lytal said, noting deals on guns, ammunition, accessories, apparel and other goods.
She invited residents to stop in and look around for the avid hunter or outdoorsman.
“You’ll be surprised what you can find,” she said.
In Colusa, Kittle’s Outdoor and Messick Ace Hardware welcomed early holiday shoppers who chose to keep part of their weekend spending close to home.
Griff’s Feed and Seed offered discounts and filled its shelves with holiday gifts and stocking stuffers. Owner Clancy Seaver described the work behind the scenes in a recent social media post.
“We’ve been unpacking boxes, fluffing displays, and adding all the sparkle and we are super excited to share our Christmas goodies with you,” Seaver said. “From cozy gifts to festive décor, the store is glowing and ready for the season.”
Also open was The BookWorm, a local nonprofit used bookstore that supports the Colusa County Free Library and its literacy programs. Shoppers browsed used books, old records, books on tape and other finds, often picking up something they did not expect when they walked in.
Local owners and federal officials share a similar message as the rest of the holiday season unfolds. Money spent in small, independent shops circulates through local economies, supports jobs and helps keep downtown storefronts filled.
They encourage residents to take time this month to walk their main streets, step into the shops they often drive past and see what neighbors offer. From hardware and outdoor gear to books, clothing, home décor and stocking stuffers, many gifts on local shelves never appear in an online search.
Small Business Saturday has ended, but Colusa County merchants say the invitation remains: get out, browse your downtown and discover what your community has.