Let’s aim to improve the economic health of your neighborhoods, your localities and your shopping corridors.
- Shopping local creates jobs. Shops in your town create local employment and self-employment. These people in turn spend in the local economy.
- Local independent shops invest more in your communities. Local businesses are proportionally more generous in their support of local charities, schools and community events. So supporting local shops means a financial contribution to your community.
- Local shops sell great products at affordable prices. Some people get out of the habit of shopping locally and are then surprised by the range of products available.
- Shopping locally saves you time and money. You travel less, saving on time and fuel.
- Shopping locally retains your communities. People don’t like losing shops and services in small towns but don’t equate this time with how they spend their money.
- Shopping locally retains your distinctiveness. Independent shops create distinctive shopping experiences and stock different products. Local businesses respond more quickly to the needs of local customers, stocking products to meet changing population needs.
- Shopping locally saves the environment. Local shops often stock a high percentage of locally sourced goods that do not require long-distance transportation, helping to reduce our global footprint.
- Local shops are for everyone. Most people can get to their local shops easily. This is especially important for the elderly, young people and others who rely on public transportation.
- Local shops value you more. Evidence from numerous surveys show people receive better customer care and service locally. These businesses survive by their reputation and repeat business, which means you get a higher standard of service.
- Shopping local saves services. Private and public sector services cluster around shops. As shops disappear so do hairdressers, banks, restaurants and other businesses.
Customers can pledge to Think, Shop, Buy, Local and commit to patronizing businesses near where they live and work. Local stores employ your neighbors, pay taxes that support your schools and improve your roads, and contribute to local nonprofit groups.
Together we can strengthen relationships that improve our quality of life. So next time before you make a purchase, Think, Shop, Buy, Local.
*reprinted with permission by the National Main Street Center
