Shops in downtown Vernon (photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Shop Local Nov. 29 and through the Holidays

Invest in the community with Small Business Day: Greater Vernon Chamber

Nov 26, 2025 | 1:07 PM

Vernon and area residents are asked to support local for Small Business Saturday.

Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is launching the initiative with the goal of having people choose to visit local retailers for their holiday shopping Saturday, Nov. 29.

The local business advocacy group said supporting local business has a local of benefits to the local economy.

“Every purchase made at a Vernon small business isn’t just a transaction; it’s a vote for our community’s future,” Sonja Harkness, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s executive director, said.

“Sixty-six cents of every dollar spent at a small business stays right here in our local economy, compared to only 11 cents when shopping at a large multinational retailer.”

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The chamber added the economic ripple of shopping local also supports local jobs, funds community projects, and helps maintain the character of Greater Vernon.

Small Business Day also serves as a kickoff to the holiday season, and the chamber encouraged people to choose local when shopping for gifts.

“This is a make-or-break time for many of our independent retailers, who have faced rising costs and economic uncertainty,” Harkness added.

“By consciously choosing to shop local on November 29 and throughout the holidays, residents can give our small businesses the strong finish they need to thrive.”