The U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Minnesota District Office is encouraging customers to shop small for Valentine’s Day and all month long.
“Small businesses drive our economy and create jobs. And at SBA, we are dedicated to helping them do both for the benefit of our local communities,” said Nancy J. Libersky, District Director of the SBA’s Minnesota District Office. “By ’Being Sweet on Small Business,’ you’ll find unique gift options and customer service that will make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.”
Shoppers looking for something special this month have many outstanding stores to choose from. One example is J.F. Kruse Jewelers in St. Cloud, Minn., whose President Melissa Kelley and Founder Jim Kruse were chosen as Minnesota’s Small Business Persons of the Year in 2015 for their growth in sales, financial strength, innovativeness, and contributions to community-oriented projects.
“While most jewelers focus on more predictable questions, such as whether you want white or yellow gold, we focus on getting to know our customers so that we can be of better service to them,” explained Melissa Kelley. “We want to know who the gift is for, what he or she likes, and what their personality is like. This allows us to provide more personal service and ensure that we’re always giving our customers our very best.”
And as an added bonus, J.F. Kruse Jewelers is paying the sales tax on any purchase, plus giving a $100 restaurant gift card and free spa package with any purchase of $300 or more.
Customer service and the dedication to unique offerings are two things that stand out about small businesses like J. F. Kruse Jewelers. They are the only custom jewelry store in Central Minnesota that can create a piece in-house from start to finish and sell it retail.
