Support Local Businesses in Ozark and Dale County this Small Business Saturday!

This Small Business Saturday, the team at the Ozark-Dale County Economic Development Corporation (ODEDC) would like to thank and recognize all of the small businesses in the Ozark-Dale County area for the joy they bring to residents and the community. In Dale County, these diverse and unique businesses continue to shape the region by contributing to the area’s charm and the local economy of a vibrant, southern community. 

Small businesses showcase community resilience and character

Small businesses are the heartbeat of Dale County. They weather storms (figuratively and literally), adapt to change, and stand as resilient pillars in our community. When we support them, we invest in the unique character that makes our communities so special.

From family-owned restaurants like Hoppergrass serving delicious Southern dishes to gift shops like Savannah's Stitches offering locally branded items, Dale County's business community is full of gems. And here, you’re not just another customer. You’re part of the community. Our business owners know our names and stories, and genuinely care about our lives. You won’t find that kind of connection in a big-box store.

How can you support small businesses this holiday season?

Whether it's grabbing a box of bagels at Loose Brick Coffee, having a margarita with a friend at Blue Agave, attending a sale Outer Edge boutique, or picking up some new shoes at Barefield's for work, your business helps support the longevity, growth, and development of the community.
If you’re watching your wallet this holiday season, consider writing a review or sharing a social media post from your favorite businesses! When it comes to locally owned businesses, word-of-mouth marketing can be the most effective way to get the word out. 

What is Small Business Saturday?

Small Business Saturday takes place annually on the Saturday after Thanksgiving when people say their “thank yous” and begin their holiday shopping. This year’s Small Business Saturday falls on Saturday, November 25. Founded by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to shop small during the holiday season. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has co-sponsored the celebration since 2011, and the day has grown into a movement supporting small businesses. 

In November of last year, American Express reported the results of its 2022 Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey. The study found that Small Business Saturday drove approximately $17.9 billion in sales in 2022 and that $0.68 of every dollar spent at a U.S. small business stays within the local area. Not only do small businesses strengthen local economies, but they also generated 63 percent of new jobs from 1995 to 2021.

This year, Small Business Saturday falls on November 25, and we hope that residents of Ozark and all of Dale County consider showing their support and shopping local! This meaningful day can act as an excuse to treat yourself at some of your favorite local mom-and-pop shops, independent retailers, restaurants, cafes, and service providers while giving back at the same time. We also recommend that Dale County-based small businesses look into these resources provided by American Express and tips from Shopify as a marketing guide for Small Business Saturday. 

Support Small Businesses in Dale County

We’re lucky to have so many local and small businesses here in Dale County, many of which are investors in ODEDC. We work together to create and preserve jobs and prosperity in our region, elevating our local economy and continuing to build a strong community. We deeply appreciate all of the wonderful small businesses in Ozark and all of Dale County. You can find a list of area small businesses here. And if you’re interested in learning more about joining the business community in Ozark-Dale County, visit our website!