Small Business Saturday is Nov. 26 and it’s a great time to recognize the many ways these businesses benefit the community. It’s also time to say thanks by patronizing locally owned, independent stores, restaurants and service providers.
- Shopping at small businesses impacts city’s financial health, residents’ sense of belonging and environmental footprint.
- They generate a large part of the tax revenue helps support the local government. This money helps fund needed city services and infrastructure.
- A large percentage of the money generated by small businesses goes right back into the community. (Big box stores cannot make this claim as they often receive large tax breaks from local governments.)
- When shopping local, you’re keeping sales taxes in your city.
- Small businesses pay local taxes.
- They provide jobs for local residents.
- They shop locally for supplies, keeping the money in the area.
- Because they are more involved in the community, small businesses are often the first to step up when a local charity needs help or when asked to donate items for fundraising auctions and sponsor fundraising events.
- Small businesses are more likely to sell locally grown or created items. Thus, residents have access to more unique items not available in large stores. One of a kind gifts such as handmade jewelry, original artwork and or specially prepared food items not available at large grocery stores are available at local, independent stores and restaurants.
- Customer service provided by small businesses is more personal. They value your business and often know their customers’ names and tastes. Service is also better because there are smaller crowds.
- As part of the community, small business owners better understand the needs of that community.
- On Small Business Saturday, many entrepreneurs offer discounts and promotions.
- A local small business owner often makes local purchases which causes less pollution. Since they hire locals, employees have shorter trips to work each day.
You make dreams come true when you support local, small businesses.
“Another reason why you should support local businesses is that they are built by ordinary people, who are often our friends, family, neighbors, or acquaintances. Small business owners are not a board or stockholders that have long lost touch with reality and have no idea what your needs are. Small businesses owners put everything they have in life at stake to make their dreams come true. – www.enterpriseleague.com”
Sources: www.forbes.com, www.ourtownamerica.com and www.enterpriseleague.com