NFIB State Director Hunter Loggins today urged Georgia shoppers to support small, independent businesses during the holidays and throughout the coming year.

“The holiday shopping season began with Small Business Saturday, but the need to support local merchants didn’t stop there,” Loggins said. “When you shop small, an estimated 67 cents of every dollar stays in the community, funding local schools, improving roads, and supporting essential services.

Loggins encouraged Georgians to shop at local stores, enjoy meals at family-owned restaurants, and use independent service providers this weekend and whenever possible.

“The weekend before Christmas is one of the most important times of the year for small businesses,” he said. “By supporting them now and into the new year, we can ensure that these businesses continue to strengthen Georgia’s economy.”