Shopping local: Here’s how you can support small businesses amid the ongoing pandemic

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Black Friday has begun, and it may look a bit different this year amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Many businesses have been forced to close, reduce hours and lay off workers.

Small businesses were hit especially hard, including those here in the Mid-South.

Shoppers can help these businesses stay afloat by buying locally this holiday season.

The trend doesn’t just apply to retail stores; restaurants across the Mid-South have struggled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

RELATED: Memphis Restaurant Association asks health department to reconsider recent restrictions

You can help by eating at a local restaurant or purchasing a meal to go.

Consider gift cards to a locally-owned place in lieu of physical gifts.

Small Business Saturday is a day to celebrate and support these businesses.

First held in 2010, Small Business Saturday encourages shoppers to support locally-owned businesses.

Buying from locally-owned businesses could mean all the difference to their survival this year.

Businesses typically see less traffic in the months following Christmas

Find a list of local Memphis businesses here.

Cox Media Group