The Jamaica National Group is ramping up preparations for its JN Mall Pop-up Shopping Experience, an event that aims to help stimulate small-and -micro-business activity during the Christmas season, which is slated for December 15 – 17.

The event will bring shoppers close to 70 businesses in the JN Bank chief office parking lot to generate activity and opportunities for a variety of small and micro enterprises.

“This goes beyond just a great Christmas event. Although we’ve put the pandemic behind us, we really haven’t put all the pressures it placed on us behind just yet,” explained Saniah Spencer, marketing executive, JN Group.

“It’s been a tough couple of years for many businesses, especially for small businesses, and while some have found new opportunities and the economy has survived and has been picking up, many small businesses still aren’t where they were pre-pandemic. Therefore, as the high inflation environment recedes, we are providing our small businesses with a stimulus so that they can be positioned to take advantage of the improving economic conditions,” she said.

With inflation down from 9.3 per cent last December to 5.1 per cent in October 2023, Spencer said there is a reason for businesses to be more optimistic this season and encouraged consumers to be deliberate about patronising local small and micro businesses this holiday.

“The event is free to the public and will feature an immense array of enterprises, spanning fashion, food, small manufacturing, art and craft, among other vocations,” she said. “It’s going to be a true mall experience with lots to sample and various fun activities to participate in.”

Several online businesses involved in the event are also set to venture into the realm of physical storefronts, marking a significant move for these establishments.

“Although online provides reach and opportunity to engage with a wider audience, people still desire to touch and feel products, and we hope this event will encourage the business owners to strive to own their own physical spaces,” Spencer said.

“JN has been the ‘mall’ in small businesses for a very long time, and we believe this initiative will further stimulate opportunities for some 70 businesses to enhance their customer base and consequently the success of their enterprise,” she underscored.

“We are confident that this will lift several spirits this season- for small businesses and consumers alike.”