Maui Small Businesses unify to offer promotions and sales on Small Business Saturday, November 26th

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DID YOU KNOW? Each dollar you spend at independent businesses returns roughly 3 times more money to your local economy than one spent at a chain store?

Small Business Saturday will happen on November 26th, 2016, as a national initiative by American Express intended to encourage shoppers to support small retailers during the holiday season rather than chains. This year, the County of Maui, Office of Economic Development has launched an inaugural promotional effort to increase marketing and awareness of small businesses in Maui County. To emphasize its importance, Mayor Alan Arakawa recently issued a proclamation for November 26, 2016 as Small Business Saturday in Maui County.amber_holiday-and-co

“If you buy small, our economy wins big,” said Mayor Alan Arakawa. “So make sure you support small businesses, because by doing so you also support our neighbors, friends and families, as well as keep our local dollars circulating right here in Maui County.”

The only countywide effort in Hawai‘i, Maui County is proud to support locally-owned, small businesses, making up 96.2% of all business in the state. These small business owners are excited to have a cohesive marketing effort and have jumped at the opportunity for free advertising and viral marketing.

“In a world that seemingly continues to limit us in making our own decisions … where and how you spend your money is still ones own. You can make a real difference in your community by supporting local small businesses. They are the spirit of the community and the economic spine,” explains Malia Vandercoort, owner of small business, Pearl Butik in Paia Town.

Countywide, businesses are taking part in Small Business Saturday. From free giveaways to huge discounts and prize drawings, visit all of Maui County’s small towns to support their small businesses. Here’s how:

  • If you’re an American Express cardholder, register your card here: https://www.americanexpress.com to receive 2X the rewards now through 12/31.
  • Follow @shopsmallmaui on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to see the deals, promotions and special events happening on November 26th!
  • On Small Business Saturday, post a photo of you shopping small and hashtag #shopmaui, #shopsmallmaui and #shopsmall for your chance to win a goodie bag of local products and gift certificates from your favorite local stores! Prizes include a $500 gift certificate to Peter Lik Gallery, a gift basket from Native Intelligence, a hat from Pome Maui, and much more!
  • If you’re a merchant and want to be included in promotions, send an email to [email protected] and be sure to register your business at shopsmall.com.