JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – In response to the often over-hyped Black Friday, dozens of local shoppers hit the streets in San Marco to support locally-owned stores. It’s part of a grassroots group looking to put more focus on helping small business owners in the Jacksonville area.
Shoppers packed The Wardroom Limited -- finding one-of-a-kind items big box chains can't offer.
Megan Hildebrand says she buys local to help her community.
“It's more enjoyable, be able to walk places,” Hildebrand said. “As you support your local communities, the economy grows, more jobs, it creates a better place to live and a better quality of life."
Organizers say for every $100 spent at stores like The Wardroom, nearly $70 goes right back into the community.
“If you shifted about 10 percent of your holiday spending from a retailer nationally to a local retailer, it actually boosts the economy by $100 million just in that one month alone,” said cash mob organizer, Mike Field.
Owner Forrest Brewer says shopping local helps San Marco keep its charm.
“It helps us survive,” Brewer said. “We pick up new customers and it brings about an awareness of local businesses and what we do for the community and the fact that most of this money that we make stays right here in Jacksonville."
Organizers are planning another cash mob in December.
Thousands of small businesses around the country are planning special offers and hosting events to support shopping locally during Small Business Saturday.
