By Brandon Martin
The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce will kick-off Small Business Saturday today, Nov. 30, in Uptown Martinsville.
Small Business Saturday is designed to encourage shopping at local businesses as opposed to larger or online retailers.
“Small businesses face many struggles when it comes to business,” said Kimberly Keller, the Uptown Entrepreneurial Development Manager. “There’s the convenience of the internet and online shopping.”
Unlike past years, this Small Business Saturday involves a scavenger hunt. Shoppers may take advantage of the event titled the 12 Days of Small Business Saturday.
Twenty boxes are hidden around the city with 25 Uptown Bonus Bucks inside which translates to $25 that could be used at any of the 18 participating local businesses.
Participating businesses are A Junkin’ Gypsy, LLC, Angel Wigs Beauty Supply & Consignment, As Is Outlet, Books & Crannies, Chain of Fools Bicycle Repair, Chris’ Custom Framing, Hugo’s Restaurant & Sports Bar, J. Jones Ltd, Kafenio Mediterranean Cuisine, Larry & Allen Furniture Inc., Main Street Scrubs, Martin Plaza Furniture Outlet, Pieces Boutique, Rania’s Restaurant Bar & Grill, Simply the Best Flowers & Gifts, Shindig an Uptown Bistro & Catering, Sparkle Me Pretty, Studio 107, Uptown Pinball, and Wigs Unlimited.
Keller said that clues for the scavenger hunt were posted on the Martinsville Uptown Facebook page.
There are 12 days to find as many blue-ribbon boxes as possible, for a total of $500 in free money placed around the city to encourage shoppers to support and shop local.
