How important are small businesses to our communities? Small businesses that employ 500 people or less account for nearly half of the United States' workforce and gross domestic product, according to the federal Small Business Administration. That might be hard to picture when you stop in at your favorite local coffee shop or bookstore. But whether you realize it or not, every dollar you spend there actually stimulates your local economy.
Need more reasons to shop local?
Keeps your community unique
Your community's unique character and personality are shaped by the people and businesses that are there. When you talk about visiting other towns, do you advise people to go there for their chain stores or chain restaurants? Probably not. That's because it's the local stores and restaurants that make a destination unique. By shopping local, you are helping to keep your community vibrant and a draw to visitors.
Offers you more personalized customer service
Every sale makes a difference to a small business owner. That means you can expect top-notch customer service and employees who know their products. Some local businesses that we love that really go above and beyond to help our community and are making a difference and helping other small businesses by hosting family-friendly Events and showcasing products of local Artists and Makers are Smart Toys & Books, Ijams Nature Center, The Old City Market, Museum of Appalachia, Fountain City Art Center, The Muse Knoxville, and Sharkey's Cuts for Kids!
Gives you a chance to support your neighbor
About 20 million people are employed by businesses with 40 people or less, according to the Small Business Administration. When you spend money at a local small business, you're helping pay the wages and benefits of your neighbors.
Is a treasure hunt!
Sure the chain stores are convenient, but they certainly don't have those one-of-a-kind and unique items you find at local stores -- that piece of "wow" jewelry made by a local artisan, the delicious specialty food made right on-site, or the handmade stuffed animal you know your child will carry everywhere.
You should feel great about spending money at local stores this holiday season -- after all, you're giving back to your community too. Happy Shopping and Holidays from our families to yours!
Kara Murphy is the managing editor of Macaroni Kid and the publisher of Macaroni Kid Erie, Pa, and Shelley Lapham-Pastore is the Publisher/Editor of Macaroni Kid Knoxville, TN
