North Bay Business Owners Express Mixed Feelings for the Holiday Shopping Season: A Call to Support Local Businesses

The holiday season is fast approaching, and North Bay business owners in California are expressing mixed feelings about the upcoming shopping season. While a national poll shows that 84% of small and medium retailers expect increased sales compared to last year, some North Bay businesses are not optimistic. Many customers use physical stores as showrooms and then order online, which hurts small businesses. Online shopping has accelerated during the pandemic, and brick-and-mortar shops have struggled to recover.

However, retailers are hopeful due to predictions of increased consumer spending, especially among younger shoppers. Social media platforms like TikTok are becoming popular for finding brands and gifts, and small businesses are leveraging social media to drive traffic and engage with customers. Collaboration between businesses and community-minded initiatives, such as staying open later, are being pursued to attract more shoppers. The fourth quarter is crucial for retailers, and Small Business Saturday and the first Friday of December are traditionally busy days.

Some businesses have experienced banner years in 2020 and 2021 but are now facing challenges due to economic factors. Despite the rise of online shopping, many customers still value the tactile experience and good customer service provided by local businesses. Some business owners believe there is a growing desire among people to return to retail stores.

Overall, there is cautious optimism for the holiday season, with early signs of increased gift purchases and holiday parties being booked. The holiday shopping season is crucial for small retailers, as it can determine their success for the year. Small businesses are seen as the backbone of the economy, contributing to local communities and creating jobs. Janeen and Rodrigo Cruz, owners of the salsa company Kuali, are hoping to make up for a slow start to the year by selling their salsa at the farmer's market on Small Business Saturday. They, along with other small-business owners, appreciate every sale and encourage customers to support them directly. Buying locally is preferred by many shoppers, as it helps small businesses thrive. The holiday season is seen as a time when people are buying at their best, providing momentum for small retailers. The article emphasizes the importance of supporting small businesses during this critical time. The BeLocal Network, which promotes shopping locally and offers a discount card for exclusive discounts at participating local shops, is mentioned as a way to support local businesses.

In Louisville, customers are showing their support for local businesses on Small Business Saturday. They are flocking to the Nulu neighborhood to enjoy the unique hand-made goods and contribute to the local economy. Shopping in person allows them to connect with local artisans and learn the stories behind the products. The sense of community and support for small businesses is important in Louisville, which has a thriving local business scene. Stores in Nulu and throughout the city will continue to offer sales and deals throughout the holiday season, hoping to attract new customers. [689154bd]