Competing with Amazon, Facebook, and Google is becoming more expensive every day. So far this month, a near-record 200 billion dollars worth of mergers and acquisition deals have been announced in the U.S And with the holiday retail season kicking off, big box retailers are trying all sorts of new pricing strategies to compete with Amazon. Both Best Buy and Toys "R" Us gave customers early access to Black Friday deals. Others offered in-store discounts for loyal customers. Small businesses around the country are gearing up for Small Business Saturday this weekend. The event was created by American Express in 2010 as a way to support independent businesses across the country. It's held annually on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. As many as 80 percent of consumers say at least some of their holiday shopping will be done at small, independently-owned retailers or restaurants.