Here are five simple reasons to shop local that can have a profound impact on your community and neighbors.
1. It shows you care.
Supporting local businesses and shopping local shows how much you care about the community that you live in. By putting money back into your community, you can help your neighbors make an honest living, and help your community continue to thrive.
2. Small businesses want the best final result, not just your money.
It’s no secret that big companies prioritize profit. A local company is more than that. They work harder to guarantee you a product that is even better than something from a big corporation. They want to stand out and add value.
3. The owners are your neighbors.
You probably know the couple who own and operate your local dry cleaner or doughnut shop. They may live around the corner or serve on a committee with you at your children’s school. Like you, small business owners are invested in your community and in making it a better place to live. Even if you don’t know each other well, they may recognize you, and you can count on them doing a great job and providing personalized customer service with a smile when you visit their business as well as when you pass them in the grocery store.
4. Buying local supports the local economy.
Patronizing locally owned businesses helps infuse dollars into the local economy. Local business owners are more likely to use local banks, accountants, cleaning companies and more. They are likely to source office supplies from local vendors and hire local restaurants to cater a big meeting or office party. Economists say that for every $100 you spend with a local business, $68 stays in your community.
5. Small businesses support local organizations.
How many times have you approached the owner of a local pizzeria, hardware store or automotive shop about a cause dear to you? Small business owners are happy to sponsor Little League teams, dance teams, charity 5K races, yearbook ads and more in their local communities. They volunteer and they donate to fundraisers. They do it because they love where they live and work.
