Now, everyone knows about small businesses. However, only some people make sure to support, when sometimes it’s their next-door neighbor! So many companies are local, family-owned, or just historic and have gone through trials on trials to stay open for their avid customers.
Of course, in today’s consumerist society, we want things quick, easy, and at the most minor inconvenient. That means going to Target for your groceries because you know the name. Come on, it’s Target. Why should you go to the local food market? People often fail to realize that those giant corporations do not benefit or struggle from your encounters with them. Shopping small and local stimulates your communities’ economy and goes right back to you!
Look at it like this: your best friend Joe has a sandwich place. He has spent countless months, maybe years, to get that jawn open. Alright, maybe he got into the business as any sort of means to make money and provide, but in the case of many small businesses, it could be his dream or chosen path. Those tiny interactions with locals, with his friends like you could make his day, and now he hopes to share it with you over some bread, cheese, and however many condiments you desire.
Subway may be the easier choice, a chain with a swarm of employees that can throw together your footlong faster than Joe and the kids can. They often fail to throw a key aspect in there though: a little bit of love and genuine care put into the product. Joe and your local baristas, designers, florists, and everyone in between made their business so they can use their individual expressions to please you! Every sandwich, coffee, t-shirt, and flower represents that person, their goals their dreams, and the experience they hope to give you. No chain or mass-produced company can provide you with a simple, authentic dose of love in what appears to be an everyday purchase or consumption.
As mentioned before, it helps the local economy and you to support small! Continuing with our friend Joe, say you buy a sandwich. That is more money in his pocket to go help another small business or pay his taxes to help build your community. It’s also just financially aiding a neighbor who you could care about and grow up with, instead of a corporation that you have no tie to, and not every penny counts.
Small businesses often give employment to people young and old in your community, which means even more locals you get to support! Supporting small businesses isn’t just about making purchases; it’s about investing in your community. By choosing to shop locally, you’re not only stimulating the local economy but also fostering social connections and helping your community! Every penny spent at a small business represents a vote of confidence in the dreams and aspirations of your neighbors and friends.
So, the next time you have a choice between a large corporation and a small, family-owned business, consider the significant influence your decision can have. Let’s continue to support and appreciate the small businesses that enrich our lives and keep our towns buzzing and glowing.