Shop Small Saturday was a success nationally, locally

The Thanksgiving weekend held more for Kennett area shoppers and merchants than just the hectic frenzy of Black Friday. It was followed by a laid-back, Shop Small Saturday, sponsored by the Kennett Chamber of Commerce. It was an event that spanned the U.S., created by American Express five years ago, in an effort to help small business owners gain more customers.

Forbes Magazine's www.forbes.com said yesterday that the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and American Express reported 88 million consumers shopped small on Saturday, and that 67 percent, or more than two-thirds of the U.S. population, was aware of Shop Small Saturday. It was also reported that, nationwide, $14.3 billion was spent with independent retailers and restaurants, an increase of 2.1 percent from last year.

Kennett Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Melissa Combs said at least 25 local merchants participated in the event, and that 250 tote bags were distributed to local stores, to be used as customer giveaways. "I believe it went really well," said Combs. "I have had a lot of positive feedback from the merchants that participated."

Meli Purputidis, owner of Meli's Boutique, was one of the Kennett merchants participating in Shop Small Saturday. "It went very well," said Purputidis. "If they decide to do it again next year, I'll participate." Cindy Moore, of Kennett's Polka Dot Rooster, also had some positive comments. "We did very well, and I was very pleased with the outcome," she said. "If they do it again, we will definitely participate." Combs said that Mary Jo Byrd, owner of the Byrd's Nest, in Kennett, also emailed her, saying she had a good sales day.

Other local business that participated included All Season's Flowers and Gifts, Andy's Creations, Baker Farm and Hardware, Bootheel Guns and Ammo, Chuck Long Music Company, Cornerstone Pharmacy, Dollins Clothing, Farmhand Supply, Fresh Tech, I Cell Phones, Ken's Music, Keith's Pool Kare, Kennett Veterinary Clinic, McClain Mini Storage and The Paint Store, McCulley's Vacuum Cleaner Sales and Service, McDaniel Firestone, Myra's Framing and The 23rd Psalm, ShowMe Rent to Own, South County Produce, The Store, Tropical Glamour Boutique and Wilcoxson's Homeplace Furniture.