There’s been a shift in recent years that has taken consumers away from the big-box retailer. Countless people are craving a more personal experience and it’s easy to do that right here in Northwest Connecticut.
Despite this shift in attitude, there are still many folks that much prefer what they know. They “get” department stores. They believe in the names they are familiar with. For them, the idea of shopping local seems like a cheapened experience. Those people couldn’t be more wrong. While it is natural to conduct business with those we know, like and trust, local businesses have something bigger to offer than just a well-known name on the front door. Supporting them does more for our communities than a trip to Wal-Mart ever could. Here’s why!
You Stimulate the Local Economy
When you shop local, your dollar is more likely to stay within the community. There was a study conducted by America Independent Business Alliance that found that “an average of 48% of each purchase at local independent businesses was recirculated locally, compared to less than 14% of purchases at chain stores.” Stimulating your local economy also can lead to lowered taxes for your area over time.
It Creates Jobs
Local businesses employ locally. Giving them your dollar is likely to minimize the unemployment rate in your area. In many cases, small business provides better wages than chains. According to Small Business Administration, small businesses have provided 55% of all jobs since the 1970s. This is a huge win for every neighborhood.
You Get Better Quality Food
When you buy from local farmers you are getting the crème de la crème in produce. There supply tends to be grass-fed, chemical free and fresh. While it is possible to get this at national chain grocers, it’s not the norm. For small businesses, it is! This may provide long-term health benefits for you and your family.
Small Businesses Give Back to The Community Directly
For local businesses, corporate responsibility goes far beyond writing a check for a cause. They get down with us to strengthen the neighborhood in endless ways. Local shops can sponsor events for community clubs and sports teams right in their brick and mortar locations. These are the same businesses that become community hubs during disaster. This level direct impact on the community is not something big-box stores are known for.
You Know the Brand Personally
Independent businesses are run by people and not stakeholders you never see. Knowing the faces behind the brand is hard to do at a national chain store. You get an authentic connection to the people making business happen when you buy local. The process for getting the attention and care from national corporations is much more involved. Shopping local tend to create a better customer service experience. Since the owners are often easy to access they can tailor their services to your needs in ways you could never get somewhere else.
Local Businesses Give your Community Character
Small local businesses give your neighborhood that special something you can’t get anywhere else. You can find a McDonald’s and a Target anywhere but that little café on Main street that has the best brunch menu, it is totally unique to you and your neighborhood. This is invaluable. Supporting the one-of-a-kind experience local shops create preserves your neighborhood’s unique flare.
Do you run a small business here in Northwestern Connecticut? Tell us below. If not, what’s your favorite local business? We’d love to give them our support.
Lisa Partrick
Vice President, Secretary
860.393.9172
