On November 25, 2023, Dickinson celebrated Small Business Saturday, an initiative encouraging consumers to support local businesses. Since its inception in 2010, this event has gained traction across the United States, and this year, multiple local retailers in Dickinson offered special promotions and refreshments to attract customers.
Festive Offers from Local Shops
In downtown Dickinson, small business owners embraced the day’s spirit with various incentives. Studio 9 Designs, recently relocated to a central downtown location, celebrated its ninth anniversary by providing visitors with complimentary mimosas and iced sugar cookies. The store also featured a special discount of 29% off all Christmas decor, furniture, and wall hangings.
Faithful Blend, known for its community meeting space and a rich selection of beverages made from Dark Canyon coffee, teamed up with ND Construction to offer a drawing for a $100 gift card. Meanwhile, the newly opened 701 Chic Boutique showcased its elegant clothing line for women, inviting each visitor to take home a gift bag along with coupons for January purchases.
Across the street, Saucy Blonde Boutique promoted a ‘buy one, get one 30% off’ deal, adding to the festive atmosphere. This array of offerings provided shoppers with exciting choices as they explored the downtown area.
Increased Competition from Major Retailers
While local businesses presented enticing deals, competition for shoppers’ attention has intensified this year. Two major retailers, TJ Maxx and Harbor Freight, have recently opened in Dickinson, attracting significant foot traffic. The Stark Development Corporation reported that its tracking system indicated a notable increase in visitors to the TJ Maxx location, while Harbor Freight has welcomed over 130,000 visitors since its opening.
The presence of these larger retailers may influence consumer behavior, but the community’s support for small businesses remains strong. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses contribute 99% of all businesses in the United States, highlighting their importance to the economy.
Furthermore, an SBA survey conducted by Teneo on behalf of American Express revealed that up to 20% of a small business owner’s annual revenue could come from Small Business Saturday. The SBA estimated that spending at local merchants during this event reached an impressive $22 billion nationwide in 2024.
As Dickinson’s local businesses rallied together for Small Business Saturday, they not only showcased their unique offerings but also underscored the vital role they play in fostering community spirit and economic resilience. With increasing competition, the future of local shopping will depend on how well these businesses adapt and innovate to retain their loyal customer base.
