It’s good for your community

Shopping locally, during the holidays and beyond, fuels an important economic engine in your community.

Small, independent businesses are more likely to, in turn, purchase goods and services from local suppliers and distributors, hire a local workforce and to do business with local financial institutions, the Labovitz School of Business and Economics at the University of Minnesota at Duluth says.

Here’s more on gift shopping locally this holiday season.

Shopping local and job creation

The American Independent Business Alliance says 48% of each purchase at a local, independent business was recirculated locally compared to less than 14% of purchases at chain stores. Shopping at local, independent retailers, therefore, returns more than three times as much money per dollar of sales to the local economy than chain competitors. Meanwhile, shopping online generates almost no economic benefit outside of the delivery person.

Local spending benefits local schools. It’s one of the most important sources of tax income for local and state governments, particularly schools. Callaway Bank says about 47% of school revenues come from state funds and 45% from local governments, both of which are dependent on the taxes paid by local retailers.

Green benefits

Shopping local is better for the environment. Local businesses tend to have shorter supply chains, which results in a smaller carbon footprint than international companies. The reduction in transportation lowers carbon emissions and local businesses may be more attuned to the environmental concerns of their community.

Stronger social ties

Buying from local, independent retailers fosters a sense of community and strengthens social ties, the North Jefferson Chamber of Commerce says. Local businesses are often owned by residents who want their community to do well. They support local events and sports teams, contribute to community initiatives and more, creating a supportive community where people feel a sense of belonging and support.

Keeping communities unique

Local businesses can be the beating heart of the community, giving each town its own unique character and charm. By supporting local shops, customers can prevent their communities from becoming homogenized by the options offered at big, impersonal retail chains.