Why Should You Support your Local Businesses?
Where we live, local businesses are essential for keeping our community unique and connected. Small businesses not only provide a community character and economical advantages but they also strengthen relationships between neighbors, residents, other small business owners, community leaders and even local schools. However, as big chains and large business take ownership in our towns, local store owners are left in the dust. It is our job to make sure these struggling businesses get the recognition and business they deserve.
According to the Small Business Administration(SBA), there are more than 28.2 million small businesses in the U.S, creating 63% of new jobs and generate 54% of U.S sales. If these numbers don’t impress you, think about this: If you spend $100 at a local business, $68 stays in the local economy. Only $43 stays for large businesses. This basically means independent retailers are returning more than three times as much money per dollar of sales compared to chain competitors. The SBA says, “We recognize that small business is critical to our economic recovery and strength, to building America’s future, and to helping the United States compete in today’s global marketplace”. So by supporting your local businesses, not only will you single handedly give back to your local economy but you also will make a huge difference in a local owner’s life and well being.
Local businesses are known to have stronger, better and more personalized customer service as well as a better understanding of what the consumers in their area want when it comes to products. Small store owners care about you and your needs. They also give back to the community as well! Did you know small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to nonprofit and community causes? This just goes to show how much they truly care and how far they are willing to go to keep our individual communities alive.
When thinking about a place to buy your coffee, lunch/dinner or buying a gift for a friend or family member, instead of going to a chain, explore your own town and you will be surprised with what you find!