Easy and Fun Ways to Support Local
Shopping local is a win-win for residents, their community and small businesses that rely on the support of each and every customer. As a home-grown local company, Sphinx Date Co. knows that reality and suggests the following easy and fun ways to support local businesses — and why it’s so important to do so.
Shopping “small” — meaning at local small businesses — is a vital factor in boosting the economy because small businesses are more likely to reinvest in the local economy at a higher rate than chains do. According to a Forbes article, “For every $100 spent at one of these businesses, for example, $68 stays in the community. That’s more than twice the amount chains reinvest.”
Local businesses also help create economic growth through employment and improving stability in their communities. In short, local dollars tend to stay local and therefore have a direct benefit of the creation of more local jobs.
Shopping local is also better for the environment. Buying produce from a local farm at a weekend farmers market, for example, not only supports that small farm, but supports the environmental aspect of reducing the footprint of a large conglomerate trucking its produce across the country.
A farmers market is actually the perfect easy and fun way to support local! Aside from enjoying food from an incredible local food truck or bakery, shoppers can pick up their produce for the week as well as other staples such as cheese, granola, locally raised meats, farm fresh eggs, locally baked bread and so much more. In addition to food and pantry staples, such as local honey and jams, farmers markets generally feature a variety of artisan items such as hand soaps and lotions, essential oils, high-quality homemade dog products (including snacks and treats) and gorgeous one-of-a-kind gifts such as art pieces, sculptures, candles and jewelry.
Shopping at a locally run boutique is another great way to support a local business and to discover new and upcoming local labels and brands. It’s also a fair bet that many local boutiques carry unique items that can’t be found on every shelf in major chain stores across the country. So these are great places to pick up a unique ensemble or gift that represents the community.
While shopping is obviously a great way to support local businesses, people can help support them without spending a dime! Consider the power of word of mouth. Small business supporters can tell people about their favorite local shops and ask their friends about theirs. A quick share of a local business’s social media post is another way to help give small businesses a little boost.
Sphinx Date Co. encourages shoppers to consider how important shopping small is not only to the environment, the economy and the community, but to the small businesses themselves. Sphinx Date Co. appreciates its loyal supporters and new customers near and far!