A movement to “shop local” gained steam as more communities faced few options outside of big box stores. The shop local approach encourages consumers to patronize local businesses, and even those fully devoted to the cause might not realize how beneficial it can be. The following is a look at how communities and residents win when shopping local.
· Shopping local increases employment opportunities. Small businesses employ more workers in the United States than their larger counterparts, creating two out of every three new jobs, according to the Small Business Administration. In fact, small businesses account for 99.7 percent of all employer firms in the United States. Buying locally means employment levels are either going to be stable or there will be more opportunities for local residents to work in the community.
· Shopping local does not cost more money. Many people are under the assumption that buying locally is always more expensive. But this isn’t always the case. Local shops may offer a range of products from a particular region, which will reduce shipping costs, and that savings can be passed on to the consumer. Plus, small businesses may offer special discounts and promotions more readily than nationwide chains, so consumers can get more value for their money.
· Shopping local helps to keep money in the community. Patronizing local stores creates a recirculation of money in the community. Dollars spent in town raise the overall level of economic activity, which helps pay salaries, and builds up the local tax base, says Michigan State University Center for Community and Economic Development.
· Shopping local can help the planet. Environmentalists were among the first people to promote local consumption, as buying local can cut down on transportation-related pollution.
· Shopping local stretches beyond seasonal events. Certainly there are a host of local merchants that do mich of their business during key times of the year or specialize in seasonal produce. However, many local businesses also offer products year-round, and these local merchants include artisans, designers, musicians, and clothing retailers.
There are many reasons to increase reliance on local shops and vendors, who benefit communities and residents in myriad ways.
