American Express Canada launches campaign to support small business revival in Canada
By PLANT STAFF
Industry Amex Canada small businessMore than half of Canadian business owners say they need a sharp recovery for their business to remain viable
As more businesses ready to open their doors, Amex stands by local businesses with #ShopSmall. PHOTO: American Express Canada
TORONTO — On June 24, American Express announced the launch of Shop Small, a campaign across Canada and other international locations meant to support small businesses as they recover from COVID-19.
“Small businesses across the country need our support now more than ever. Shop Small is about standing by the small business owners who have given so much to our communities,” said Lisa Kalhans, president and CEO of American Express Canada, in a prepared statement. “As an organization, we understand the critical role we can play in encouraging not only our own Cardmembers, but all Canadians to get out there and show up for small businesses.”
According to the Small Business Recovery Research conducted by American Express, which surveyed small business owners and consumers in Canada, most business owners are ready to take on the challenge of rebuilding (73%); however, they are concerned about the future, and about half (49%) of business owners say that every day is a fight to keep their business alive. Many are uncertain about their ability to re-hire and retain staff, while about half are nervous about making it through 2021. Underscoring the need for urgent support, the results also showed over half (51%) of small businesses need a sharp recovery to remain viable.
The majority (83%) of consumers surveyed agree that it is time to rally around the small business community and two-thirds (62%) fear local businesses will not re-open and that their communities will no longer be as vibrant.
A strong majority (77%) of business owners agreed sales promotions are important to stimulate spending for their business to make a successful recovery.
“Our goal with this promotion is to have Cardmembers show up for small businesses as much as possible. We want them to support multiple local businesses which is why we’ve made it possible to earn the credit ten times by shopping at ten different businesses — online, curbside or in-store,” Kalhans said.
