The Holiday Shopping season officially kicked off this past weekend with some specialty shopping days including Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday.

While most of the focus is on large chain stores and online retailers, Rick Kidder, President and C.E.O. of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce says local businesses have been doing well so far.

"Obviously there were some weather challenges this year, but from reports we've had anecdotely, this was was a good year," said Kidder "people are starting to get serious about their holiday shopping."

Kidder highlighted Small Business Saturday as an initiative they are particularly supportive of as it gives a boost to brick and mortar businesses in the community.

Online shopping has also remained a popular way to shop with many online retailers reporting increased business especially during Cyber Monday.

Kidder says that brick and mortar businesses have had to find ways to adjust in the new online reality.

"Online shopping has actually changed the way holiday shopping is done and a tremendous amount of everyday shopping is done," said Kidder "brick and mortar businesses have had to figure out ways to compete with service and service is something that they hope can make the difference so that people can actually see, feel, and touch the things that they're purchasing and also get good service in the process."

While some small business have established an online presence they still heavily rely on foot traffic from holiday shoppers.

"Some smaller businesses have created online presences, where they can do some of their business that way, but I think most still depend upon the holiday shopper walking in the door, smelling the cinnamon, and getting excited about the holidays and finding items that they're looking for," said Kidder.

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