Own Business Day
October 13
About Own Business Day
Own Business Day is an annual celebration of independent businesses and the entrepreneurs who run them, held on the second Tuesday of October. In 2026 it falls on Tuesday, 13 October. The day encourages customers to support local and independent traders, while giving small business owners a focal point to promote special offers, run events and connect with their communities.
What is Own Business Day?
Own Business Day is a global initiative dedicated to recognising the contribution of small and independent businesses to local economies. It brings entrepreneurs, retailers, hospitality venues and service providers together under a single banner for one day, encouraging them to offer promotions and celebrate their work. The day was created by METRO AG, the international wholesale and food specialist, and has grown into a worldwide movement. The central message is simple: when you choose an independent business, you support a real person, a family and a community rather than an anonymous corporation.
When is Own Business Day?
Own Business Day takes place on the second Tuesday of October each year. In 2026 that date is Tuesday, 13 October. Because the date is tied to the day of the week rather than a fixed calendar date, it shifts each year. The table below shows the date for the next five years so you can plan ahead.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Tuesday, 13 October |
| 2027 | Tuesday, 12 October |
| 2028 | Tuesday, 10 October |
| 2029 | Tuesday, 9 October |
| 2030 | Tuesday, 8 October |
Why Own Business Day Matters
Small businesses are the backbone of most economies. According to the European Commission, small and medium-sized enterprises account for around 99 percent of all businesses in the EU and roughly two thirds of private sector employment. The picture is similar across the United Kingdom and United States, where independent firms generate millions of jobs and keep money circulating within local communities. Yet many of these businesses operate on thin margins and face fierce competition from large retailers and online giants. Own Business Day gives them a moment in the spotlight, reminding shoppers that a single decision to buy local can help a venture survive and grow. It also celebrates the resilience, creativity and risk-taking that running an independent business demands.
How to Get Involved in Own Business Day
There are plenty of ways to take part, whether you run a business or simply want to support one.
- Shop local – Make a point of buying from independent shops, cafes and service providers in your area rather than defaulting to large chains.
- Run a special offer – If you own a business, create a discount, bundle or freebie for the day to draw in new customers and reward loyal ones.
- Host an in-store event – Tastings, demonstrations, workshops or meet-the-maker sessions give people a reason to visit and remember your business.
- Leave a review – A genuine online review costs nothing and can make a real difference to a small firm’s visibility and reputation.
- Share on social media – Post about your favourite independent businesses using the official hashtags and tag the owners so their followers see the recommendation.
- Refer a friend – Word of mouth remains one of the most powerful tools for small businesses, so recommend traders you trust to people you know.
- Network with other owners – Connect with fellow entrepreneurs to swap ideas, collaborate on offers or simply share encouragement.
- Buy a gift voucher – Vouchers bring in revenue and introduce new customers to a business when they are redeemed later.
History of Own Business Day
Own Business Day was launched on 11 October 2016 by METRO AG, a major international wholesaler that supplies independent retailers, restaurants and traders. The company recognised that its own success was tied to the health of the small businesses it serves, and created the day as a way to champion them. The first edition saw around 20,000 businesses around the world taking part, collectively offering more than 20,000 special deals to customers.
The initiative grew quickly. By its second year, participation had expanded to 24 countries, with traders offering more than 100,000 promotions between them. The deliberate choice of the second Tuesday in October reflected a practical insight: mid-October tends to be a quieter trading period, free of major holidays, making it the ideal moment to give independent businesses a boost before the busy festive season.
Since then, Own Business Day has continued to spread across Europe and beyond, supported by local chambers of commerce, trade associations and the wider small business community. It now sits alongside other celebrations of entrepreneurship as one of the most recognisable dates in the small business calendar.
Noteworthy Facts About Own Business Day
- The day was founded by METRO AG and first observed on 11 October 2016.
- The inaugural celebration involved roughly 20,000 businesses worldwide offering more than 20,000 deals.
- By 2017, participation had grown to 24 countries with over 100,000 special offers.
- The second Tuesday of October was chosen specifically because it is a quieter retail period with no competing holidays.
- Official hashtags include #OwnBusinessDay and #LoveOwnBusiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Own Business Day?
Own Business Day is a global celebration of small and independent businesses, held on the second Tuesday of October. It encourages customers to support local traders and gives entrepreneurs a platform to promote offers and events.
When is Own Business Day in 2026?
In 2026, Own Business Day falls on Tuesday, 13 October.
Who founded Own Business Day?
It was created by METRO AG, an international wholesale company, and first took place on 11 October 2016.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing Own Business Day with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #OwnBusinessDay and #OwnBusinessDay2026 on social media. The more people who know about Own Business Day, the bigger the impact for independent traders everywhere.
Related Awareness Days
- Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Day – A United Nations day recognising the vital role of smaller enterprises in the global economy.
- National Productive Business Civility Day – A day promoting respect and good conduct in business and the workplace.
- World Decarbonisation Day – A day encouraging businesses and individuals to reduce their carbon footprint.
Links
2026 Awareness Days Wall Planner
Every key awareness day at a glance. Perfect for offices, staff rooms, and team planning.
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