Why Buying from Small Businesses is Better: Supporting Local Economies and Communities
, by Brandon Buckvold, 3 min reading time
Small businesses are the backbone of any community. They are run by passionate entrepreneurs who pour their hearts and souls into their businesses to provide unique products and services. When it comes to making purchasing decisions, many consumers are now recognizing the value of buying from small businesses. In this blog, we will explore the reasons why buying from small businesses is better for the local economy and community.
- Promoting Local Economic Growth
Small businesses play a significant role in driving local economic growth. When you buy from a small business, you are directly supporting the local economy. Small businesses create jobs, generate tax revenue, and contribute to the overall economic well-being of a community. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses created 1.5 million jobs in the United States in 2020 alone, accounting for nearly 64% of new jobs. By supporting small businesses, you are helping to create employment opportunities and boost the economic prosperity of your community.
- Fostering Personal Connections and Community Relationships
Small businesses are often owned and operated by members of the local community. When you buy from a small business, you are supporting your neighbors, friends, and fellow community members. Shopping at a small business allows you to foster personal connections and build relationships with the people behind the business. You can have one-on-one interactions, receive personalized service, and feel a sense of belonging to the community. Small businesses also tend to support other local businesses, creating a network of mutual support and collaboration. This sense of community fosters a vibrant local culture and a stronger sense of belonging.
- Encouraging Innovation and Diversity
Small businesses are known for their ability to innovate and offer unique products and services. They are not bound by corporate guidelines or mainstream trends, allowing them to be more creative, flexible, and responsive to customer needs. When you buy from a small business, you are likely to find products or services that are not available in larger retail chains. Small businesses often specialize in niche markets, catering to specific customer preferences, and providing a diverse range of choices. Supporting small businesses encourages innovation, creativity, and diversity in the marketplace, leading to a more dynamic and interesting shopping experience.
- Contributing to Sustainable Practices
Many small businesses prioritize sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices. They often source their products locally, use eco-friendly materials, and implement sustainable business practices. By buying from a small business, you are supporting their commitment to sustainability and helping to reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping and mass production. Small businesses also tend to generate less waste and have smaller overheads, resulting in a smaller environmental impact compared to larger corporations. Supporting small businesses can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally-conscious community.
- Receiving Personalized and High-Quality Service
Small businesses rely on providing exceptional customer service to build relationships and retain customers. When you buy from a small business, you are more likely to receive personalized and attentive service. Small business owners take pride in their work and are often passionate about what they do. They are more accessible and willing to go the extra mile to meet customer needs. Small businesses also tend to focus on quality rather than quantity, as they depend on customer satisfaction and word-of-mouth referrals for their success. Buying from a small business often means receiving high-quality products or services and personalized attention that may be lacking in larger retail chains.
In conclusion, buying from small businesses is a smart choice for many reasons. It supports local economic growth, fosters personal connections and community relationships, encourages innovation and diversity, contributes to sustainable practices, and provides personalized and high-quality service. By choosing to buy from small businesses, you are not only getting unique and exceptional products or services, but you are also making a positive impact on your local economy and