Whether you live in a large city of a million people or a small community of 1,000, you’ve probably seen efforts encouraging people to “shop local” at some point. But why exactly should you choose a local business? What’s the benefit beyond just being nice to a local?
As it turns out, there are actually plenty of benefits that many people never realize.
1. Money spent here, stays here
Retail dollars spent locally continue to circulate throughout our community. It’s estimated that close to 80% of the money spent at a local shop goes back into the community. Virtually none of the money you spend in the city or online contributes to our community.
2. Jobs and Wages
When you buy locally, you help provide job opportunities for hundreds of Exeter and area folks. Doing business with these stores helps them hire
and retain employees (your friends and neighbors)!
3. Non-profits receive greater support
Non-profit organizations receive greater support from local business owners due to the ability for them to operate successful profitable businesses thanks to you spending money locally.
4. Stronger Tax Base
Business property owners are taxed at a higher rate than other residential property owners. Those tax dollars are used locally to improve our community’s streets, parks, schools, etc. As we add businesses, we strengthen our tax base, providing more dollars for community development while reducing the tax burden on homeowners.
5. Local business owners invest in our community
They are owned by people who live and work in our community, raising their families and investing in our community’s future. They support our churches, our schools, our organizations, and other local businesses.
6. Better Variety
Local businesses provide a wide variety of products and services, right here in our community. Many of these are “one-of-a-kind” businesses that provide our community with its own distinct character. The more people shop here, the more products and services will be available.
7. Convenience equals savings
Shopping locally saves time and money. A shopping trip to another community costs you gas and valuable time away from your home.
8. Green-friendly
Shopping at local businesses reduces gas consumption and pollution. It also reduces vehicle maintenance costs. In many cases, you can even walk!
9. Friends and Neighbors
Local businesses are staffed by local residents, your friends and neighbors. You get better service from people you know and who know you. In most cases you can deal directly with the business owner.
10. Community pride
Everyone benefits when people shop locally, and your community thrives.
But if for no other reason than the ones listed here, it’s always nice to support a local business simply to recognize the hard work and passion that went in to building that business. As any business owner can attest, it’s not easy. Local business owners truly are the backbone of any community, and your support means more than you probably know.
If you have a choice, make an extra effort to shop local. You may pay a little more, but know that you’re investing not just in a local resident, but in the community where you live.