5 Reasons that Shopping Local Benefits YOU
Over the last several years, there has been a shift in consumer purchasing behavior. And no, we’re not talking about an increase in online shopping. We’re talking about consumers getting out from behind their computer screens and actually walking down the street to make purchases in their local community. Rather than shopping at large, big-box stores or retail websites, many consumers have chosen to shop at small, locally-owned shops and stores.
This is a movement we fully support and we encourage others to get behind as well. Below are some impactful reasons that shopping local can benefit you, the consumer.
1. Personalized Service
A small business owner is going to go the extra mile to make you happy. Local businesses are owned by your neighbors and friends, they care about you and are invested in the well-being of your community and its future
2. One-of-a-Kind Products
Small businesses carry unique products and services that you won’t find anywhere else. When you shop at a chain any product you buy, hundreds of others will have.
3. Support the Arts
Small businesses support creativity! Oftentimes small businesses and boutiques sell and display art from local artists. These are one of kind pieces you can’t find anywhere else.
4. Enhances the Local Economy
Small businesses support your local economy and the money you spend at a local business stays within your town and community, thus improving its future.
5. Good for your Health
Supporting small businesses is good for your health for two reasons. One, it gets you out of the house. Take a walk to the local farmer’s market and buy some fresh produce for dinner, or buy a brand new candle from a small boutique in your town center. Two, when you buy local, you have easy access to fresh food that is chemical and pesticide free.
Now that you are equipped with some reasons as to WHY you should support small business, we want to be sure you have some action steps on HOW you can support them. Here are some small, but big, ways to help support local businesses:
Instead of purchasing items from large, big-box stores, try to purchase things from a business local to your area.
Purchase a gift or gift card at a local business in your area and give to a friend, family member, or co-worker. This will introduce the company to someone new and allow for the “shop local” mantra to spread.
Promote their business! Share and like their social media accounts or posts on your own accounts.
Give them a great review on Yelp or other consumer review sites. Many times, these sites are plagued with a negative review culture where people only review a company if they have something bad to say. Go out of your way to tell these businesses why you love them!
This Saturday, November 25th is Small Business Saturday—a day focused on supporting local, small businesses. We encourage you to take a break from the chaos of Black Friday and, instead, opt to get some of your early holiday shopping done at some local stores and shops on Saturday. We sure will be!