The day after Thanksgiving has become known as the ever popular "Black Friday" across the nation. American spend an
That's big business for box stores, but shortly after the recession in 2010, American Express started "Small Business Saturday" to help small businesses across the country get more foot traffic in local shops.
Since its inception, U.S. customers have reported spending $85 billion at retailers and restaurants, according to American Express.
Local Green Bay store owners say it's a fun, busy day.
"It's crazy, but it's a fun crazy. everybody is in the holiday spirit it's just an all around really fun day. We turn on the Christmas music we run some fun specials," said Megan Treml, owner of Besselli.
Holiday shopping has turned to more on online shopping, which has been tough to compete with and unfortunately doesn't have the same benefits as shopping local.
"I don't think people understand how supporting a small business locally and how spending your money locally affects the whole community and how the money keeps it in the city," said Keli Biebel, owner of Wild Ginger.
"I would say that spending of all types is good for a local economy. It's all good to support a vibrant economy, the focus is that those small businesses are important to us. They hire local people. The money recirculates and stays local and that's really good for our economy," said Executive Director of Downtown Green Bay, Jeff Mirkes.
Many of the businesses in downtown Green Bay offer discounts on Small Business Saturday. For a list of businesses, click HERE.
