Sarasota businesses looking for shopping boost after hurricanes [Video]

Since its inception by American Express 15 years ago, Small Business Saturday has helped drive more than $200 billion in local sales across the United States

SARASOTA, Fla. — As shoppers wrap up their search for Black Friday deals, some businesses are still reeling from the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused significant damage across the Tampa Bay area.

With many stores still closed or in recovery mode, business owners in places like St. Armand’s Circle are looking to Small Business Saturday as a much-needed opportunity to rebuild and regain momentum during the holiday season.

The challenges have been considerable for businesses that have managed to open their doors after the back-to-back storms.

“It’s a miracle… it took us six weeks to put ourselves back together again,” said Lorry Eible, owner of Foxy Lady Boutiques in Sarasota.

Despite the challenges, Eible has remained hopeful that the upcoming Small …