Binghamton's Small Business Saturday Uses Incentives to Draw Customers

11/24/2012 (Updated 10:46:19 PM)

BINGHAMTON -- "Economically, for a lot of small businesses it's been rough.  But it seems to be picking up now for the holidays." said Cindy Fedish, owner of Country Additions.

And Saturday was especially busy for Fedish, who owns a Chenango street gift store called Country Additions. Her store was one of the 22 Binghamton businesses that make up Binghamton's North Pole.  They are all participating in Small Business Saturday. The event offered customers special offers and discounts today.

"When you do support a small business, the majority of the money stays right here in the community, which is really great." said Fedish.

The event drew hundreds of new customers to the area's stores, who told us they liked what they saw.

"Chain stores don't have this kind of stuff.  This is special stuff. I love it in here.  It's my new favorite store!" said Nicole Deyo of Conklin.

Small busineses are important to the Southern Tier.  There are over 5000 of these types of businesses, which employ over 75,000 people.

"The quality is great and I think there is more care into the products because they are from the area." said Wendy Perestam, who owns Fresh Start Market.

In addition to the unique products, owners and customers told us they like the personable feel of small businesses.

"I think you have a lot of the one on one, a lot of complimentary gift wrapping, which we always offer here.  The little special touches that I don't think big stores can do," said Fedish.

"Personal attention.  It's like a family, you walk in it's like family and friends." said Rosie Cepero of Minerva.

It's not too late to get out and support your local stores, as more deals will continue throughout the holiday season.

Samantha McDonald, Fox 40 News.