Shop Local, Stay Local
05/03/2023
Shop Local, Stay Local
Many people often talk about how important it is to shop locally at small businesses in your community, and today we wanted to take a look at why it’s so important to shop local.
- Stimulates the Local Economy
American Express estimates that for every dollar spent at small businesses, sixty-seven cents stay in that business’s local community (US Chamber). The money you spend locally gets cycled back into that local economy in several ways. Money made at a local business goes into paychecks for employees, tax revenue for re-investment into community projects, and into supporting community causes.
Furthermore, nothing is better for a community than job creation. Local businesses bring more employment opportunities and often appeal to those who do not want to work for a big chain.
- Good for the Environment
Local businesses make more local purchases and require less transportation than most chain stores. This greatly reduces their carbon footprint and helps reduce congestion on the roads. In addition, when you shop locally, chances are you use less gas than you would driving farther away for a chain store—and it saves you travel time!
- Better Customer Service
We’ve all experienced calling a big company in need of assistance, and the only person you can talk to is a robot. When you shop locally, you are far more likely to speak to a real person, one who maybe even has a personal relationship with you.
Employees at small businesses can take the time to really get to know their customers’ wants and needs. It’s a nice feeling to walk into a store and be greeted by name.
- Encourages Innovation
Small businesses are in natural competition with bigger stores, so they must find ways to stand out. This encourages small businesses to break from generic products and make more unique innovations. Also, because they know their customers more intimately, they are better able to create products and services that best serve you!
- Fosters Community
One way small businesses foster community is by helping to create a shared identity. In giving your money to these small businesses, you support the kind community you want to live in. Small businesses reflect your community’s unique soul and character.
Another way small businesses foster community is through charitable work and donations. Small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to local nonprofits, according to Forbes.com. Re-investment into the community they do business in is only possible with your help.
Shopping locally has important positive impacts. Not only does it allow you to control the unique character of your community, but it allows small businesses to re-invest in you. Remember: shop local, stay local!
Sources:
https://www.boody.com.au/blogs/eco/10-reasons-why-its-important-to-shop-local#region
http://geneseo.org/top-ten-reasons-to-shop-local/
https://www.uschamber.com/small-business/shopping-small-benefits-more-than-just-local-businesses