American Express has launched its annual Shop Small campaign, which will run from 1 to 2 August 2024.
The campaign, which was established in 2010, aims to celebrate the contribution that small businesses make to the economy and encourages consumers to support them.
“Small business owners are often the great connectors of Australian communities. Without them, we wouldn’t have our favourite coffee shops, restaurants, gyms, grocers, and retailers that help create our local village vibes. They’re not just the backbone of our communities, but our economy too, providing about 42 per cent of private sector employment, and generating one third ($500 billion) of Australia’s GDP,” says American Express Vice President of Global Merchant Services Australia Robert Tedesco.
The launch of this year’s campaign comes as American Express and the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) release the findings of its latest Small Retail Index. According to the company, the report shows almost half (46 per cent) of small retail operators work more than 50 hours per week, while a fifth (22 per cent) admit to working more than 60 hours per week.
During the Shop Small campaign, American Express Card Members will earn five bonus points for every $1 spent at Amex-accepting small businesses. For all eligible businesses participating, there is a chance to win one of 10 cash prizes worth $10,000 each.
“American Express is proud to continue backing these small business operators through initiatives like Shop Small so that small businesses can not only survive, but thrive, into the future as the heart of our local communities,” says ARA Chief Executive Officer Paul Zahra.
“With the winter period often being one of the slowest in national retail trade, initiatives like the American Express Shop Small program help make a difference by encouraging new and existing customers through the doors of our retailers.”
Founded by American Express, the Shop Small nationwide campaign aims to highlight the valuable contribution small businesses make to communities and the economy. The campaign also takes place in Canada, Japan, India, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, the United States, and other countries.
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