What Shopping Small Does for a Small Business and the Local Economy

It’s no secret that summer tends to be the slow season for the Valley of the Sun. While locals tough it out during the dog days of summer, hoping for a monsoon to bring a slight reprieve in the weather, small businesses across the Valley are counting the moments until the high season brings tourists flocking back.

However, regardless of the season, shopping “small” and local is always important—and it always makes a significant impact. Whether stopping into a favorite independently owned restaurant for an incredible meal, perusing the stalls of a local farmers market for fresh produce and unique gifts, or supporting a local retailer, small businesses are always appreciative of diners and shoppers’ support.  

And shopping small isn’t just a nice thing to do, it’s good for the economy—and so much more. According to an article on Forbes.com, “it’s crucial to remember that our dedication to supporting small businesses should be more than one day on our calendars. Every day presents an opportunity to choose local, invest in our community, and ensure its prosperity. Supporting small businesses has a multifaceted impact. Economically, it stimulates local economies and creates jobs. Culturally, it preserves the distinct
character of our neighborhoods. On a personal level, it fosters connections, with shopkeepers often knowing their regulars by name and their preferences.”

While small businesses still struggle post-COVID, they are also facing major challenges just to keep their doors open. Not only do they have to face off with mega-retailers, they have to stay abreast of digitalization to help create an online presence, and often lack the capital to compete with larger, corporate businesses.

Supporting small businesses doesn’t even have to mean frequenting the establishment or buying things regularly. A simple share of a social media post. A kind review. Choosing a small business over a big box store when possible. All these small choices lead up to a big impact for small businesses.

And dining at a local restaurant or shopping at a locally owned retailer offers a unique experience that can’t quite be duplicated at a large corporate chain restaurant or store. A small business is usually built on love, passion... and sometimes a little blood, sweat, and tears. But it shows—in the finely curated products that were chosen with care, attention to detail and with the intent to support other local purveyor, in the local ingredients that were harvested at a nearby farm and used to create a one-of-a-kind dish by a chef that cares, and in the personalized attention restaurant and store owners want to give their cherished customers.

During the slow season, or any time of year, shopping small and local can make a massive impact on the community and on the life of a small business owner. Whether that means stopping in to make a purchase or simply telling friends and family about a favorite “hidden gem” that they have to check out, supporting a local business makes a lasting impression.

The Sphinx Date Co. family is always happy to see our beloved customers and is appreciative of every one of them. So stop in and say hi!