Honestly it is not something that I really thought about before owning my own store, but at some point, it dawned on me that I needed to support local businesses whenever possible. So now intstead of going to a big box store, I try to find what I need in a local store. Usually, I end up with something more unique and I experience better customer service. Two things that really are important to me.
Recently I found out about this grass roots effort to encourage people to support there favorite local stores and in turn help their local economy. It is called the 3/50 project. www.the350project.net
The project asks you to think about which three independently owned businesses you’d miss most if they were gone and then stop in and say hello. Pick up a little something that will make someone smile. Your support is what keeps those businesses around. If just half the employed U.S. population spent a total of $50 each month in independently owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.*
Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of the employed population did that. For every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.
The number of people it takes to start the trend is just one ...you.
So whether it is at Summer House or another favorite store, show your support and shop locally. I also think this can be applied to any time of local business, ie resturants, florists, etc.
Remember, it doesn't have to a big purchase, whatever you can afford, but rest assured you are duing your part and keeping the local businesses in business.
Have a great day!
