The convenience of online shopping is great news for consumers, but it’s not necessarily good news for small and local businesses. Shopping small and local businesses produces a variety of benefits not only for the establishments you support but for your community as well. Here’s a closer look at some of the many reasons you should consider shopping small and how you can do so.
Reasons to Shop Small
First, shopping small helps your local community and economy. About half of the cost of your purchase recirculates into the local community, compared to a mere 14% when you choose to shop at a larger, chain store. (That figure usually reflects wages spent on employees.) While shopping at chain stores can help support jobs for local residents, the fact is that when you shop small more of that money stays within your community.
In addition, shopping at small businesses helps support jobs as well. You would be surprised to learn that small companies are responsible for employing more than half of the workers throughout the nation. When you choose small businesses, you’re helping maintain jobs and create new ones for the people in your neighborhood.
If you’ve ever shopped at a farmer’s market, you can testify to the increased quality and selection you can find there. Whether you’re buying fresh produce, flowers or homemade bread, you’re bound to find a tempting mélange of flavors at a fair price. Even more so, you’re supporting the work of local farmers and producers, too. Eating at local restaurants that use locally grown ingredients is another way to support job-growth as well.
Shopping local can also show support for your art community. Local artists are more likely to offer their wares at small businesses, farmer’s markets and other storefronts than at larger companies. When you shop at smaller retailers, you support both the business and the artists who are creating the work.
Not to be overlooked is the customer service you’re more than likely to receive at smaller companies. While large companies may be able to coast on the strength and recognition of their brands, small businesses are more likely to be committed to positive customer experiences. Community shops and restaurants understand that every customer matters, and they are more likely to “go the extra mile” in a way that other stores may not. Additionally, they are invested in their communities; three in four local businesses support charitable organizations.
Keep Reading
For more information on how to shop small, check out the accompanying resource by House of Webster.
This infographic was created by House of Webster, a contract food manufacturing company
Jenny Green, Co-Owner of Fisher Green Creative, specializes in digital strategy development, social media marketing, and SEO for small businesses. Away from helping clients or studying the latest marketing trends, Jenny volunteers her time coaching youth soccer, enjoys a cold craft IPA, and works to save the elephants. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn or email.
