Small companies across America including Eso Won Books in Leimert Park Village are preparing to celebrate Small Business Saturday, and this year the independent book seller will feature a day of authors, food activities Nov. 26 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at its location, 4327 Degnan Blvd., Los Angeles.
“This our sixth year of participating, and it’s like ‘Black Friday,’” said Eso Won co-owner James Fugate, who expects six to eight authors to attend the event.
What has been exciting for Fugate is that each year during his time in office, President Barack Obama makes a trek to a local independent book store showing his support for Small Business Saturday.
That lead-by-example exercise has a been a big boon for Fugates’ business who said that last year many customers came and stayed all day. Additionally, he estimates that sales were 50 percent above what normally happens.
Small Business Saturday is part of a nationwide movement created in 2010 by American Express to celebrate small businesses. According to the AMEX website, the day is usually celebrated the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Consumers can also visit the website www.shopsmall.com to find updates on participating businesses.
As part of the effort, American Express, AMEX will offer specials for eligible card members. These include earning two times the reward points at qualifying small businesses through Dec. 31. Participating small business can also offer customers their own specials.
