SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - Small business Saturday has a new meaning in 2020. Across San Diego County, small business owners hoped customers would make an effort to shop local during a time when they’re hurting.
“A day like this could potentially be one of the most important days for a small business,” said Joey Flores, saying Chimera, an outdoor market for clothing, records and cacti in North Park, was taking extra precautions for small business Saturday to protect people from coronavirus.
In Barrio Logan, sisters Marla and Abigail Mercado went to Casa Xovi, a local gift shop filled with items celebrating the Latino community.
“Supporting our local business because we want, especially in Barrio Logan, we really want the history and the culture to stay here. So even if you’re only spending ten bucks here and there, that’s money that adds up,” they said.
Casa Xavi owner Xochitl Villarreal said she’s seen more customers the weekend following Thanksgiving and hopes this continues. She said small business Saturday is an important day, but encourages people to make efforts to shop local even after the holiday weekend is over.
“It is what it is and we have to live through it and we have to be strong, be resilient,” said Villarreal.
In Oceanside, William Bike, the Executive Chef at Mission Avenue Bar and Grill said the community members are what has helped them stay afloat, in addition to all of the local businesses who are sticking together to support each other.
“We have that big local following, that big local support and that’s really what’s kept us alive,” said Bike.
