Black Friday vs. Small Business Saturday in Columbia, SC: Skip Both and Shop The Bin Store Every Friday!
Forget choosing between Black Friday chaos and Small Business Saturday—at The Bin Store on Augusta Road in West Columbia, EVERY Friday delivers Black Friday prices without the madness!
While big box stores offer deals once a year and local shops see their biggest weekend, we bring you unbeatable prices 52 weeks a year on liquidation merchandise from major retailers.
You’ll actually save more per visit at The Bin Store because our prices drop daily throughout the week.
Whether you’re shopping in January, July, or the actual Black Friday in November, you’ll find the same incredible treasure-hunt experience—typically spending $45-67 on unique finds that would cost double elsewhere.
Plus, you get personalized browsing without crowds, no waiting in line at 3 AM, and no stress.
Serving shoppers across the Midlands including Columbia, West Columbia, Cayce, Lexington, Irmo, and near Fort Jackson, we’re transforming how Midlands residents shop year-round.
Perfect for University of South Carolina students seeking dorm essentials, Fort Jackson military families stocking up on household items, and Lake Murray residents from Chapin and Irmo looking for weekend deals.
We’ll show you exactly how shopping smart every Friday impacts your wallet better than any one-day sale.
Located just off I-26 Exit 111A (Augusta Road), next to Carolina Pottery.
The Bin Store Columbia
2814 Augusta Road
West Columbia, SC 29170
Key Takeaways
- Small Business Saturday generates higher average spending ($67) than Black Friday ($45) and significantly boosts local business sales.
- Local businesses retain 68 cents per dollar in Augusta versus big box stores keeping only 14 cents locally.
- Small Business Saturday offers relaxed shopping with shorter lines and unique handcrafted items versus crowded Black Friday mainstream electronics.
- Local stores like Maria’s Boutique saw 40% sales increases on Small Business Saturday compared to lower Black Friday performance.
- Future trends favor year-round small business support with pop-up shops and online integration beyond single-day shopping events.
The History of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday in Augusta
While Black Friday’s roots trace back to 1960s Philadelphia, Augusta shoppers didn’t embrace the post-Thanksgiving frenzy until the 1980s when Augusta Mall expanded to over 90 stores. We’ve been treasure hunting ever since!
Black Friday origins in our city looked different than today. No midnight madness. Just solid deals at local department stores.
Then 2010 changed everything. American Express launched Small Business initiatives nationwide, and Augusta’s downtown merchants jumped on board. We finally had our own shopping holiday!
Small Business Saturday arrived in Augusta in 2010, transforming how locals support downtown merchants and creating a uniquely personal shopping tradition.
Small Business Saturday gave us something Black Friday couldn’t: personal connections with shop owners who remember our names. It’s like choosing between a massive treasure chest and a perfectly curated jewelry box.
As the city evolves, events like the Bin Store Liquidation Store offer unique opportunities to find incredible deals beyond the traditional shopping calendar.
Both traditions now define our November shopping culture. Which one speaks to you?
Economic Impact: Where Do Holiday Dollars Go?
Here’s where your money actually goes:
- Big box stores: Only 14 cents per dollar stays in Augusta
- National chains: Around 43 cents remains local through wages and taxes
- Small businesses: A whopping 68 cents circulates right here at home!
Local shops reinvest in our neighborhoods. They sponsor youth sports teams and hire our neighbors’ kids for their first jobs. Additionally, supporting local businesses fosters a thriving community economy that benefits everyone.
Think of it like planting seeds. Corporate purchases? Those sprout elsewhere. But shopping local grows our own backyard! Your holiday spending becomes tomorrow’s community resources.
What Augusta’s Local Business Owners Have to Say
We talked with three Augusta shop owners who’ve seen Black Friday and Small Business Saturday from behind the counter. Their local insights reveal surprising patterns you’ll want to hear.
Maria’s Boutique noticed 40% more sales on Small Business Saturday last year. She told us customers spend an average of $67 per visit compared to $45 on Black Friday. People actually browse instead of hunting for one specific deal!
Owner experiences at River Street Books show similar trends. They moved $12,000 in merchandise during Small Business Saturday weekend. That’s double their Black Friday numbers.
Third Street Coffee saw 300 customers walk through their doors on Small Business Saturday. Owner Jake said folks stayed longer and bought gift cards for friends. Real community connection beats discount chaos! Additionally, local businesses benefit from platforms like Facebook Marketplace, which leverages the power of social networks to boost visibility and sales.
Price Comparisons: Can Small Retailers Compete With Big-Box Discounts?
Here’s what we discovered comparing price strategies:
- Kitchen mixers: Target offered $179 while The Happy Kitchen sold handmade versions at $165
- Winter boots: Walmart’s $45 pair versus Augusta Boot Company’s $52 leather boots with free repairs
- Board games: Amazon listed $23.99 while Toy Corner charged $24.50 with gift wrapping included
Small retailers create competitive advantages through bundles and services. You’re not just buying products—you’re getting expertise and support! Local shops often match big discounts during Small Business Saturday. Plus they’ll remember your name next visit. That personal touch becomes the real treasure you can’t find online. With the rise of liquidation sales, small businesses can effectively compete against larger retailers by offering unique products at attractive prices.
The Community Connection Factor in Augusta’s Shopping Culture
When you shop at Augusta’s local stores, you’re actually investing in your own neighborhood’s future. Your dollars stay right here in our community!
Here’s what makes shopping local different:
- Local partnerships create jobs for our neighbors and friends
- Small businesses sponsor Little League teams and school fundraisers
- Community engagement happens when owners know your name
Think of it like this: big-box stores are vending machines, but local shops are your neighbor’s kitchen table. We’re all in this together!
That $25 sweater from downtown Augusta? About $18 stays local compared to just $8 from chain stores. Your favorite coffee shop owner probably coaches soccer on weekends. The bookstore manager volunteers at the library.
Shopping locally also promotes reuse of consumer goods, reducing waste and benefiting the environment, which further enhances community values.
That’s real community connection you can’t buy anywhere else!
Traffic, Crowds, and the Shopping Experience on Both Days
Beyond the feel-good community vibes, let’s be honest about something every shopper cares about: actually getting through the door without losing your mind. The traffic patterns and crowd behaviors on these two days couldn’t be more different!
Skip the parking lot demolition derby and checkout line marathons—there’s a smarter way to shop this holiday season.
Black Friday means you’re battling parking lot chaos at 5 AM. Small Business Saturday? We’re talking easy street parking and actual breathing room.
Here’s what the retail experiences look like:
- Black Friday: Shoulder-to-shoulder crowds, 45-minute checkout lines, and stressed-out shoppers grabbing $199 TVs
- Small Business Saturday: Relaxed browsing with personal space, 5-minute waits, and friendly conversations
- Shopping preferences shift: You’ll find treasure hunting works better when you can actually see the merchandise
The crowd difference changes everything about your day.
How Online Shopping Has Changed the Black Friday vs. Small Business Saturday Dynamic
Online shopping trends mean Black Friday starts on Wednesday now. We’re all clicking “add to cart” while eating Thanksgiving leftovers! Big retailers offer the same doorbusters online, so why brave the crowds?
But here’s the plot twist. Small Business Saturday actually benefits from digital coupons and Instagram posts. You’ll discover Augusta’s hidden gem shops through social media, then visit in person for that treasure hunt experience.
Additionally, knowing the checkout procedures at local stores can enhance your shopping experience and save you time.
The best part? You can do both now. Score online deals Friday, support local Saturday. We’re not choosing sides anymore—we’re winning twice!
Success Stories: Augusta Businesses That Thrive on Small Business Saturday
Let’s meet some Augusta shops that absolutely crush it every Small Business Saturday! These local heroes prove that Success Strategies matter more than big budgets.
Three shops leading the Local Trends:
- The Book Tavern pulls 300+ shoppers with $5 mystery bags and author meet-and-greets.
- Phinizy Swamp Store moves $8,000 in handcrafted goods during their treasure hunt event.
- Surrey Center boutiques team up for sidewalk sales reaching $15,000 combined revenue.
We’re talking serious community wins here! These businesses don’t just survive Small Business Saturday—they dominate it. Their secret? Creating experiences you can’t download or Amazon Prime your way into.
The Book Tavern’s mystery bags sell out by 10 AM. Phinizy’s nature-themed gifts become Augusta traditions. Surrey Center transforms into a shopping festival we actually want to attend. Many local stores, like The Bin Store, enhance this experience by offering a unique shopping environment that brings the community together and creates excitement around local shopping initiatives.
What Shoppers Actually Buy on Each Day
While Black Friday shoppers hunt for discounted electronics and doorbuster deals, Small Business Saturday brings out a completely different shopping list. We’re talking big-screen TVs versus handmade pottery!
Black Friday brings bargain hunters chasing electronics, while Small Business Saturday shoppers seek handcrafted treasures you won’t find in big-box stores.
Black Friday Gift Preferences:
- Electronics averaging $300-$800
- Name-brand clothing at 50% off
- Gaming consoles and accessories
Small Business Saturday Spending Trends:
- Unique jewelry pieces ($25-$150)
- Locally roasted coffee and artisan foods
- Custom home décor and artwork
You’ll find us grabbing practical tech deals on Friday. Then we switch gears for Saturday’s treasure hunt through boutiques and specialty shops. The excitement of discovering unique products mirrors the thrill of purchasing liquidation pallets, where shoppers can uncover unexpected treasures at low prices.
The contrast is massive! Black Friday means mainstream brands we all recognize. Small Business Saturday celebrates one-of-a-kind finds we can’t get anywhere else. Both days serve different purposes in our holiday shopping strategy.
The Future of Holiday Shopping in Augusta’s Retail Landscape
Augusta’s retail landscape is getting a serious makeover, and we’re here for it! You’re watching retail trends shift right before your eyes. Shopping preferences are changing faster than ever in our community.
Here’s what’s coming to Augusta’s shopping scene:
- Hybrid shopping experiences where you’ll browse online and pick up at local stores within two hours.
- Year-round small business support instead of waiting for one Saturday in November.
- Pop-up shops appearing in downtown Augusta every weekend from October through December.
- The lively atmosphere of the best flea markets will inspire local vendors to showcase unique items in creative ways.
Big box stores aren’t disappearing completely. They’re just sharing the spotlight now! Local boutiques are teaming up with tech to compete. You’ll find QR codes leading to exclusive deals at your favorite Augusta shops. The treasure hunt continues year-round!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Augusta Stores Open on Thanksgiving Day Before Black Friday?
Most Augusta stores stay closed on Thanksgiving Day itself. You’ll find limited local store hours that day since most retailers give their teams time off. However, some big-box stores open around 5-6 PM for early bird shoppers.
Your Best Bet for Thanksgiving Shopping:
- Wait until Black Friday morning
- Check individual store websites the week before
- Call ahead to confirm hours
We’re all treasure hunters at heart! Planning ahead means you won’t waste time driving to closed doors when you could be enjoying turkey with your crew.
Do Augusta Businesses Offer Layaway or Payment Plans During the Holidays?
Like finding treasure in your own backyard, you’ll discover that many Augusta shops do offer payment plans during holiday shopping season! We’re talking real solutions for real budgets here.
Several local stores provide layaway options. You can secure gifts now and pay over time. Augusta Mall retailers like JCPenney offer traditional layaway programs.
Local discounts often include flexible payment arrangements too. Independent shops frequently work with you on custom plans. Just ask the owner directly!
Where Can I Find Parking in Downtown Augusta on Saturday?
You’ll find plenty of parking options when you’re treasure hunting downtown on Saturday! We’ve got your back with several choices.
Free street parking fills up fast, so arrive early. The metered spots cost just $1 per hour.
Here’s the real deal: downtown traffic gets busy around 10 AM. Try these smart moves:
- Park at the free municipal lot on 8th Street
- Use the James Brown Arena garage ($5 all day)
- Grab spots along Reynolds Street before 9 AM
What Are Typical Store Hours for Small Business Saturday in Augusta?
Ironically, while big-box stores blast their hours everywhere, small business hours on Saturday stay surprisingly mysterious! Most Augusta shops open around 10 AM and close by 6 PM. Holiday shopping trends show we’re all hunting deals together as a community. Some stores extend to 8 PM for enthusiastic shoppers like us. Pro tip: call ahead since each business sets their own schedule. You’ll discover the best treasures when you arrive early!
Do Augusta Retailers Offer Price Matching During Black Friday Weekend?
You’ll find price matching policies vary wildly among Augusta retailers during Black Friday weekend. Most local shops don’t match big box prices because they’re already offering their best deals. Here’s what we’ve discovered:
Chain stores like Target and Best Buy honor their standard price match guarantees even on Black Friday.
Local boutiques rarely price match but often sweeten deals with free gift wrapping or local delivery instead.
Want the best strategy? Call ahead Wednesday to ask specific stores about their policies!
Conclusion
you don’t have to put all your eggs in one basket. We can shop both days and support our Augusta community while snagging amazing deals at The Bin Store Grovetown, located at 862 Horizon South Parkway, Grovetown GA 30813!
Black Friday brings the discounts. Small Business Saturday brings the heart. Together, they create the perfect holiday shopping weekend. The Bin Store offers both – incredible Black Friday savings with a local shopping experience. With 800,000 to 1,000,000 products sold per year at each location, you’ll find unbeatable variety and value.
Your wallet decides the winner. But honestly? The Bin Store Grovetown deserves your attention this season. Shop smart and spread the love! Check out our [Black Friday Deals Augusta GA 2025](https://shopbinstores.com/black-friday-deals-augusta-ga-2025/) and visit us at 862 Horizon South Parkway or call 803-507-5982. Also serving the Columbia area at The Bin Store Columbia, 2814 Augusta Road, West Columbia 29170 (803-728-5699).
For more Black Friday deals, visit:
- [Black Friday Deals Columbia SC 2025](https://shopbinstores.com/black-friday-deals-columbia-sc-2025/)
- [Black Friday Deals Snellville GA 2025](https://shopbinstores.com/black-friday-deals-snellville-ga-2025/)
- [Watch our deals on YouTube](https://youtube.com/shorts/6q4KQdxvvQA)
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<p>The post Black Friday vs. Small Business Saturday in Augusta: Which Wins? first appeared on The Bin Store Liquidation Store.</p>
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