Big Peach Running Co. logo

Small is Big at the Peach

Support local, shop local with Small Business Saturday at Big Peach Running Co.

Small Business Saturday

If you scroll to the bottom of any page on the Big Peach Running Co. website, you will notice a distinct phrase, a phrase that has underscored our business since day one: “Locally Owned and Operated.” To put another way, we are an independent retailer. We are a small business. Though there are seven Big Peach Running Co. locations around metro Atlanta, our ongoing intent is to provide you with stellar service in an environment that is “inviting, comfortable, and fun.” We take fun seriously at Big Peach Running Co. Speaking of which, if shopping for new running gear is a fun activity for you, tuck this date away in your mind: November 26, 2016. This is Small Business Saturday.

Shop Small

Small Business Saturday

November 26, 2016. That sounds like the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It is indeed, which means that the Friday prior to Small Business Saturday is Black Friday. Oh my – did your heart recoil upon the mere mention of this day? Or did your pulse begin to race as you started to ponder the bargains to be had amidst the frenzy of other determined shoppers? Personally, I prefer to sleep in on Black Friday, but millions upon millions love to rise in the wee hours of the morning and secure remarkable deals on toys, televisions, tablets, and more. Unfortunately, after Black Friday concludes, most people then turn their attention to Cyber Monday for more deals on the web. We invite you to drop by Big Peach Running Co. on Saturday, November 26, to “Shop Small.”

Let’s backpedal for a moment. What is Small Business Saturday (SBS)? Started by American Express in 2010, SBS exists to “support small businesses across the country.” That’s a simple initiative – but it’s having a powerful impact in the marketplace. According to a 2015 Consumer Insights Survey conducted by Ebiquity, 95 million people shopped at a small business on Small Business Saturday in 2015. Furthermore, total spending at independent retailers and restaurants reached $16.2 billion, an increase of 14% from $14.3 billion in 2014. This is significant.

In the words of Denise Pickett, President of American Express OPEN, “Small businesses are critical to the stability of our local communities and growth of our national economy.” Community is the primary word here, and thus it should be unsurprising that the mission of Big Peach Running Co. is to grow the Pedestrian Active Lifestyle (PAL) in the communities of metro Atlanta. So whether you live in Alpharetta or Snellville, Kennesaw or Mableton, Doraville or Decatur or Duluth, a store is nearby. I’ve even met people who drove from South Carolina to visit the Big Peach Running Co. Suwanee location. That’s the epitome of commitment.

Think Big

Small Business Saturday

I suppose the obvious question is how. How can I be part of Small Business Saturday? I’d love to deliver a grandiose response, but the answer can be summarized in one word: shop. Or more to the point – shop at Big Peach Running Co. on November 26. Support your local store on Small Business Saturday, and remember too that your patronage goes beyond dollars and cents. Dan Danner, President and CEO of the nonprofit National Federation of Independent Business, clarifies why shopping at small businesses matters. “When you shop at small, locally-owned businesses, you’re supporting your friends and family. You’re supporting the people who support our schools and charities. When you support small business, you’re supporting your community.”

There’s that word again. Community. Along with unrivaled service and product expertise, the people who comprise Big Peach Running Co. are mindful of the privilege – and responsibility – that we have to help make our communities a better place to live, work, and play. We do this by promoting the Pedestrian Active Lifestyle. Accordingly, whether you need a new pair of shoes, a replacement hydration vest for your next ultramarathon, a workshop to improve your running form, or some additional wisdom on how to address a running injury, the Guest Advocates at Big Peach Running Co. are waiting to serve you.

Step Out

There are numerous places to buy running gear today. Competition is stiff for sure, but we believe that the reviews for Big Peach Running Co. are a testament to our commitment to our mission. This is why we hear statements like this: “I will not shop anywhere else for running shoes.” Or “I’m Big Peach loyal.” Or “Never once did I feel like anything less than a priority.” We are grateful for these kind remarks, and we recognize that they are rooted in the power of superb service.

So after the Thanksgiving meal ends and the NFL games conclude (will the Lions win?), enjoy a good night sleep as the shopping season commences. If you decide to shop on Black Friday, be sure to strap on some wearable tech as you’re bound to hit the day’s step goal – and then some. Replenish your energy with some leftovers from the fridge (i.e. a Turkey sandwich) and repeat the process on Small Business Saturday. Like the man in red, make a list and then check it twice. Whose name is on that piece of paper that is in need of some new running gear? We’ll be waiting.

Austin Bonds is a Guest Advocate at the Big Peach Suwanee location.