In an age when we use keystrokes instead of footsteps to acquire what we want, it’s easy to undervalue the impact of shopping, eating, and getting services locally. With the rise of large-scale businesses and e-commerce, it can seem like small businesses are unable to compete. However, supporting these local establishments is critical for the sustainability and vitality of our communities.
One of the most significant ways supporting local businesses benefits the economy is by keeping money within the community. When you purchase goods or services from a local business, the money you spend stays within the community, circulating through the local economy. This creates jobs and other opportunities while helping to support the infrastructure of the area. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 stays in the community.
Small businesses are the backbone of many communities, providing jobs and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs. By staying local, you directly support these business owners, helping them thrive. The success of these entrepreneurs means a healthier economy and better job opportunities for people in the community. These entrepreneurs sponsor local events, fostering connections and building trust.
We encourage you to not simply stay home and do all your shopping on-line. This does not help our store owners. Use the internet to research what you want to get and then call a local store that carries the item.
These local businesses are owned by our neighbors and friends. For years we have asked them to support so many non-profit events or sports’ team fundraising efforts and they have generally responded positively.
Small businesses play a significant role in supporting local community charities and causes. Local businesses benefit from a strong community, so the owners tend to be more engaged members of the community themselves. Small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to local nonprofits and community causes, creating a positive cycle of giving back.
Yes, you can easily buy a book online, but is it really too much trouble to call Diane’s Books, order it, then swing by Grigg Street to pick it up?
When you buy local you tend to develop a relationship with those establishments you frequent which leads to better customer service and experience. We have all been frustrated by calling an 800 number to return a poorly purchased item, then been transferred four different times only to give up and re-gift the item for someone’s birthday.
Buying local and supporting small businesses is at the core of our local economy and is such an important part of what makes Greenwich, well, Greenwich. If we did not have stores such as Sophia’s, McArdle’s, Diane’s Books, and many others, the feel of our community would be very different indeed.
It is not just the merchants – we need to support our local restaurants as well.
We hope you will join us in supporting as many local businesses as possible.
By supporting small businesses and shopping small, you support real people who are passionate about their work and actually care about you.
Encourage others to think globally, shop small, and support local businesses to fund a better tomorrow.
