Merchants Say Small Business Saturday Was A Success

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) -- There's some good news to report for small businesses. Merchants say this year's "Small Business Saturday" promotion triggered a big increase in sales.

This promotion started last year and generated a 28 percent uptick in sales, according to American Express. This year the number of shoppers could approach 89 million nationwide, and Facebook likes for Small Business Saturday have grown from 1.5 million last year to 2.7 million this year.

Goodstock Boutique, a Downtown Plaza clothing store, saw plenty of green on Small Business Saturday, money that should help put Goodstock Boutique in the black.

"Considering what we saw last year, it was about a 20 percent increase in volume of people coming through the door and purchasing," said owner Justin Bilbao.

More purchasing power by consumers triggered more sales and increased foot traffic. Merchants from coast to coast say they had a great day, thanks to social media and a big promotion from American Express. Shoppers who used their American Express cards to support local independent businesses received a $25 credit.

The volume was also good at Getta Clue, where owner Scott Gilbert was very happy with Saturday's sales.

"You know a 20 percent increase isn't bad," he said. "In this day and age, we'll definitely take that."

In Old Sacramento, retailers told CBS13 that Saturday was also very good to them.
especially mark snyder of chef's mercantile.

"Our sales were up about 30 percent over last year," said Mark Synder, owner of Chef's Mercantile.

For customers such as Crystal Owens, it's all about shopping local to support nearby merchants.

"I am not an owner, but I love to patronize small businesses because I like the service," she said. "And even though sometimes you pay a little bit more, it's worth it because you feel like you're doing something for your community."