10/30/2026
❤️ A SMALL REQUEST FROM ONE SMALL BUSINESS OWNER TO YOU… ❤️
I want to share something with you that I think might surprise a lot of people.
I recently asked Shopify to calculate how much Fourth and Main has paid in debit and credit card processing fees since we implemented the SHOPIFY POS.
Are you ready for this?
💰 $49,702.71!
Yes, you read that correctly. Almost FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS in processing fees since January 2021!
And that’s JUST processing fees. It doesn’t include our monthly Shopify subscription, dispute fees, or other business expenses.
As a small business owner, that number honestly made my jaw drop.
Think about what $50,000 could do for a small business. That’s money that could go toward inventory, rent, utilities, improvements, and simply keeping the doors open.
And here’s something many people don’t realize…
Businesses pay processing fees on DEBIT cards, too! Even when you’re using money directly from your checking account.
So as we head into the holiday shopping season, I have one small request.
❤️ If you’re shopping at a small business and have the option, PLEASE consider paying with CASH.
It may seem like such a little thing, but those fees add up quickly. Paying with cash helps us eliminate those high card processing fees and keeps more of your purchase supporting the business itself.
Now, please hear my heart on this. ❤️
We are grateful for EVERY customer, regardless of how you pay. Cash, local check, debit, credit — your support means the world to us, and I would never want anyone to feel uncomfortable about their payment choice.
I’m simply sharing something that most customers never see behind the scenes.
Running a small business is expensive. There are so many costs that people don’t realize exist, and every dollar truly matters.
Shopping small supports a dream. Paying cash helps that dream go even further.
Thank you for loving, supporting, and shopping at Fourth and Main on Laurel. We wouldn’t be here without you!
❤️ Laura
P.S. This isn’t just about our store. Consider paying cash at your favorite locally owned shops, restaurants, salons, and other small businesses, too. It really can make a difference!
P.S.S I have seen many arguments on social media about this very topic. Some argue that businesses are not charged for debit cards. However if they use Shopify they ARE!!! Think about this…. The credit card companies charge you when you use your card and then they also charge the business. They are making double the money!!!