We have more fun when we shop at local businesses.
Maybe it's the atmosphere, maybe it's the products, but we always leave a local shop with a smile on our face. There's much more to shopping local than just fun, though.
We did some research and found some foolproof reasons for why you should shop local this season (and every day!):
5 Reasons to Shop Local
1. Your money stays in your community.
There are so many benefits to shopping locally, but perhaps the biggest benefit is economic. According to Civic Economics, for every $100 you spend at a local business, around $68 of that money will stay local.
Compare that to the $43 dollars or fewer that stay local when you shop at a local branch of a chain business.
Shop online? You can bet almost NONE of your money benefits your local community.
2. You'll be supporting local community groups.
Research has shown that 90% of small business owners contribute directly to their local communities. Local businesses raise funds, donate items and experiences, and promote the causes of groups within their neighborhoods.
Some studies have found that local non-profit organizations receive 250% more support from local businesses than chain retailers.
3. You can bet we know what we're talking about.
Local businesses carefully curate their products, so you can count on quality. Local businesses typically have highly-trained, specialized staff that can answer almost any question you have regarding a product or its use. Got a problem? You can come to a local business and find a solution.
4. You come first.
Customer service is the first name of local business, not the middle. At a local business, you can expect to find generous return/exchange policies, special ordering programs, same-day service, and personalized shopping.
5. You can't find some stuff anywhere else!
If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, where-did-you-get that item, a local business is your best bet. They've often got locally-made products and art you won't be able to find just anywhere.