Why Shopping Local Matters – 2:25
1. More money stays here
A study showed for every $1,000,000 in revenue, independent retail stores and restaurants recirculate $450,000 into the local economy compared to only $170,000 for chain competitors. Additional money recirculated by local businesses goes into wages for local residents, purchases of local goods and services, charitable giving and profits for local businesses.
2. They keep us unique
Where we shop, where we eat and have fun -- all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefit. When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them these.
3. Decisions are made here
Local business owners make decisions without being influenced by a corporate head office. This means that business decisions that affect our community, like sourcing locally, are made by people who care about our community and will feel the impact of those decisions.
4. More locals are employed
For the same revenue, local businesses employ 50-70% more local people than chains.
5. Helps start-ups
Shopping local also promoted the creation of start-ups, moving families into the middle class. Those start-ups account for 20% of local job growth.
6. Small shifts
make big impacts
In a city of 1 million, if we all shift 5% of our shopping to local businesses, we will help produce over 3000 more local jobs, and $100 million in additional dollars are added to our local economy. So where can you make the shift?
