Meridian businesses target November 28 with holiday marketing push

Small businesses in Meridian have until November 28, 2026, to prepare for Small Business Saturday, a day designated for consumers to shop with local merchants. The Meridian Chamber of Commerce released a marketing guide this week to help owners reach customers during the holiday season.

The guide emphasizes that businesses do not need complex campaigns to participate. Instead, owners should focus on clear offers, accurate business information, and reminders across the channels their customers already use. The chamber advises merchants to ensure their websites, social media profiles, and Google Business Profiles contain current hours, contact information, and pricing details before promoting any holiday deals.

Meridian shop owners are encouraged to define a specific holiday offer to give shoppers a reason to visit. The chamber suggests options such as gift cards, service packages, holiday product bundles, or seasonal menus. Marketing materials should be specific, such as "holiday gifts for teachers under $30," rather than general phrases like "shop our holiday collection." If inventory is limited or order deadlines exist, businesses must state these details accurately and update customers if anything changes.

The chamber recommends a timeline for marketing efforts. In the weeks before November, owners should select featured products, take clear photos, and confirm prices. Two weeks prior to the event, businesses should send emails to customer lists and post details on social media, including hours, location, and direct contact methods. During the week of the event, owners should share short reminders and answer common questions. On November 28, businesses should post that they are open and respond to messages promptly.

The Small Business Administration and American Express offer free marketing materials for Small Business Saturday. The chamber advises businesses to check usage guidelines before adding campaign logos or assets to their own materials. Owners can also use local partnerships to increase visibility, such as cross-promotions with nearby businesses that serve similar audiences.

The guide lists several channels for consistent marketing, including email, social media, websites, Google Business Profile, and in-person signage. The chamber notes that businesses do not need to be active on every platform. Instead, they should pick the channels they can maintain and keep information consistent across them. A clear path to shop, book, or contact the business is essential on any website.

After Small Business Saturday, the chamber suggests following up with customers to build longer relationships. Owners should thank customers after purchases and invite them to sign up for updates. Businesses should track simple measures such as sales of featured items, website visits, email clicks, and new customer inquiries. Comparing these results with usual activity helps owners adjust their marketing for the rest of the holiday season.