It’s undeniable: one of the hallmarks of the holiday season is gift giving. As much as well all like to practice being thankful and spending time together, it’s probably true that you enjoy giving tokens of your affection to loved ones just as much as the other traditions. As you begin your usual holiday shopping don’t head to the mall; instead, make a stop downtown, to main street or wherever mom and pop shops reside in your town. Here are four reasons why you should buy gifts locally.
1. Plain and simple: shopping at a small business fuels the local economy. Nationally, small businesses are the largest employer and they provide jobs to people in your community! Small businesses also tend to support and collaborate with other small businesses; it’s a beautiful circle of life
2. Local businesses are going to hire people who are passionate about their store. You’ll get better service and a chance to know the small business owners in your community.
3. More often than not, gifts from your local shop are going to be more unique than the mass-produced items you’d find at a typical big-box store. And why wouldn’t you want to encourage and support unique stores in your town? One-of-a-kind businesses also generate more tourism for your city; what tourist wants to visit the United States of Generica?
4. It’s better for the environment. Small businesses often use local resources and have less of an impact because they don’t ship overseas or mass produce products.
Show your loved ones you care about them AND the community!
