We’ve all heard the craze around supporting local businesses. Buy local, they say, eat local, they shout, go local, they promote. But sometimes buying locally can be difficult, whether in price, availability or convenience. Still, choosing community businesses can be worthwhile, and even worth advocating.
When it comes to supporting local businesses, there is more to it than helping the community; it supports you, too. Consider these reasons why going local helps you in the long run.
1. Strengthen your local economy
According to Civic Economics, for every dollar you spend at an independent business, three times more money is returned into the local economy compared to money spent at a larger chain, and up to 50 times more compared to an online retailer. This money goes back into the community you live and work in, helping to support programs for you and your family.
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Small businesses often give back to the community in other ways, whether donating, buying or financially backing other independent groups. When small businesses are strong, the community and local economy are strengthened as well.
2. Create more jobs
Not only is your local economy strengthened when you shop locally, but you also help create more jobs. According to the Small Business Administration, there are now over 33 million small businesses in the U.S., and they consistently provide roughly two-thirds of all net new jobs.
These jobs could go to your friends, family or neighbors, people who would probably experience much more competition at a large chain store. Or these jobs could go to you, just from doing your part to support the community.
3. Reduce environmental impact
Locally owned businesses often make more local purchases for their products, requiring less transportation and outsourcing. They typically consume less land, are located closer to residents and create less traffic and air pollution. All of this leads to less congestion, less habitat loss and less pollution. While this may not impact you immediately, it can impact your children and grandchildren in the future.
4. Support local infrastructure
Many people want their tax dollars used efficiently, and supporting local businesses helps do that. With small businesses, more efficient land use and central locations put less demand on roads, sewers and safety services. Independent businesses often generate more tax revenue per sales dollar. A thriving local business sector helps keep your community funded and can lessen the financial burden on residents over time, compared with mega-stores.
5. Improve your family’s health
When it comes to buying produce and choosing places to eat, local food distributors and restaurants are often a healthier choice for you and your family. According to GrubMarket, buying local foods has health benefits, often giving you easier access to organically grown, pesticide-free fruits and vegetables, grass-fed meats and fresh eggs and dairy. This means you and your family can enjoy a meal while supporting the local community and choosing a healthier option.
Whether it is aiding the economy now or building a better world for future generations, small businesses are here for you. But first, they need support, too.
