Shop local during Small Business Week 2024

MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) – April 28 through May 4 is recognized as National Small Business Appreciation Week, and what better way to celebrate than to shop local?

East Mississippi is slam-packed with small businesses that supply the local communities with many goods and necessities.

In Mississippi, 99.3% of all businesses are recognized as small businesses, making this industry the lifeblood of the Mississippi economy.

Shopping at a small, local business not only supports your local economy but also comes with more perks than shopping at a big box store.

“Well, you know, small businesses have such a huge impact on the community. Not only, you know, from an economic standpoint, but from a cultural standpoint. When you have these local businesses that people want to come back to because they develop relationships and their personal experiences, it really makes a difference. And it makes, you know, it makes the community more vibrant. It’s just really important,” said Tourism Director of Visit Meridian, Laura Carmichael.

According to the American Independent Business Alliance, money spent at a small local business will have nearly four times the impact than shopping at a larger chain store. 

So remember to go out and shop local!

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