Supporting Local Businesses without Breaking the Bank

Local businesses rely on the support and patronage of the community and visitors all year round, but especially during slow seasons and in difficult economies. And there are many ways shoppers can support local businesses without breaking the bank — and in many cases even without spending a dime! Sphinx Date Co. encourages people to support local in any way they can and shares a few suggestions on how they can do so.

 

Write a Glowing Review — Many people turn to the internet to find out about local stores and restaurants. So the simple act of sharing a good experience on sites like Yelp or Open Table can help these small businesses get some well-deserved attention for their excellent products and services. Go ahead and pump them up!

 

Get Social — Follow favorite local establishments on social media, share an interesting and engage in their posts. Get the conversation going online about local businesses!

 

Talk about it — Wearing a cute shirt from a local business and getting compliments on it? Share the news! Tell people where it came from and anything else about the business itself to encourage people to check it out on their own.

 

Swap the Supermarket for the Farmers Market — When possible, try to swap out dollars spent at a big chain store or supermarket for a local retailer or farmers market. Farmers markets are generally stocked with amazing local produce, dairy and meats that are locally grown or harvested as well as other artisan products that are handcrafted. This not only means the items are as fresh as possible, it means they have less of a carbon footprint because they didn’t travel very far.

 

Volunteer or Give Back — Many small businesses and local non-profits could use a hand! Find a cause of passion and see if there is a local chapter that needs volunteers or donated items. Rather than collect all the donated items oneself, start a small drive among family, friends and neighbors to collect and deliver these much-need items.

 

Subscribe to Email Lists — This is a win-win because it allows businesses to connect to their targeted clientele... who will also benefit by receiving directed content as well as special discounts, offers and invitations to exclusive sales.

 

Take Advantage of Frequent Shopper Cards — Many small businesses utilize a punch card to encourage patrons to come again... and eventually earn a free or discounted item. This is another great win-win for someone who wants to support a small business, such as a nearby coffee shop, without spending a large amount. Always ask a small business if they have a punch card. Generally after nine or 10 purchases (such as a coffee or a boba tea), the patron can receive one for free!

 

Purchase Gifts/Gift Cards — When it’s time for gift-giving occasions, remember small businesses! They often have great one-of-a-kind items that can’t be found at every department or big box store. And when it comes to a hard-to-buy-for person, gift cards are always the perfect size.

 

Small business owners work hard to share their passions with the community. So when shopping at a local store, engage with the staff and owners. They will be so appreciative of your patronage and feedback. When possible, consider shopping small in the community. It helps everyone and makes a big difference to the local economy.