Main Street merchant saw slight uptick on Small Business Saturday

Joan Ayersman tries to think of creative ways to appeal to her customers' sweet teeth.

Ayersman, the franchise owner of chocolate shop, Fannie May, on Lakewood Ranch Main Street, participated in Small Business Saturday Nov. 29. 

Although she doesn't know exactly how many customers came in as a result of the advertising strategy, she thinks more people may have visited the store because of the event.

"(Small Business Saturday) may have brought in a few extra people," Ayersman said. "I did have a few people say they came in to meet their limit to get rewards."

The shopping holiday launched in 2010 and invites patrons to shop locally and at small businesses to support "mom and pop shops" nationwide. Business owners show they're participating by hanging signage in their stores.

The American Express event also features participating businesses on its website — www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/shop-small/.

Customers receive discounts after shopping at three local stores, with proof of purchase. 

Contact Amanda Sebastiano at [email protected].