As American Express celebrates the 10-year anniversary of its Shop Small campaign, new research reveals camaraderie and resilience among small business owners – despite current economic challenges.
In a survey of retail and hospitality sector business owners commissioned on behalf of American Express and Small Business Saturday, 90 per cent said it is important to support other local independent businesses. Meanwhile, 85 per cent say they actively promote other local small businesses and 83 per cent work with small local suppliers where possible.
Recognising the vital contribution their businesses make locally and the need to support fellow entrepreneurs, three quarters of respondents (74 per cent) agreed there was a strong sense of community among small businesses in their local area.
While over half (56 per cent) of these small business owners said the next outlook for their business over the next six months would be “challenging,” over a third (36 per cent) said they were “optimistic” and one quarter (27 per cent) “excited.”
10 years of shopping small
American Express’s Shop Small campaign first launched in the UK in 2012 alongside Small Business Saturday. It continues to be the principal supporter of Small Business Saturday, encouraging Brits to back the nation’s small businesses that have such a positive impact on our local communities.
Dan Edelman, general manager, UK merchant services at American Express, comments: “Our research offers further proof of how community-focused and generous of spirit small business owners are. They are facing hugely challenging times but appreciate and support the valuable contribution their fellow entrepreneurs make. We’re proud to continue championing them with the return of our Shop Small campaign and Offer, available at more locations than ever before this winter, as well as through our long-standing support of Small Business Saturday on 3 December.”
The Shop Small Offer
Shop Small seeks to mobilise American Express’ loyal Cardmembers, encouraging them to spend instore with small retailers this festive season, generating additional sales, new customers and boosting brand loyalty for merchants.
From 3 – 12 December 2022, American Express Cardmembers will receive a £5 statement credit when they spend £15 or more at participating small businesses across the UK. The offer can be used up to five times, once per participating small business location, meaning that Cardmembers can reward themselves with up to £25 back in statement credits – making their spending go further this December.
The Shop Small Offer is fully funded by American Express at no cost to merchants. The total number of participating locations for the campaign has risen by 34 per cent compared to December 2021 – its biggest number ever.
Terms, locations and payment restrictions apply. For full terms and conditions please visit the Shop Small Hub. Offer excludes Corporate and Pre-Paid Cards.