Shop Small in Augusta This Weekend

AUGUSTA, ME — Major national retailers pin their hopes for a successful season — or even a successful year — on the revenue on Black Friday. Since 2010, the following Saturday has been an important opportunity for small businesses to do the same and kick off a strong holiday season of sales.

Small Business Saturday has been sponsored by American Express since its launch, and embraced by other national and local commerce groups. Sales are important, but so is the holiday reminder that local gifts, treats and services look great under the tree, too.

• Find small businesses to support in Augusta on this ShopSmallNow map

“Small business represents 99.7 percent of all U.S. employers, and they provide jobs for 58 million Americans,” said Nicole Riley, a director for the National Federation of Independent Business, in a statement. “For many local retail businesses, the holiday shopping season is a make-or-break time, and Americans who want to support their communities and the economy should remember to shop small.”

Photo: American Express