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Americans have many choices when it comes to shopping. Thanks to the Internet, you can buy handmade beard warmers from a seller in Bulgaria without putting on pants or leaving the couch. Popping into a big box store is also a convenient way to get more mundane items at a low price. However, American cities across the country are encouraging you to get up off your couch, get dressed, and do your shopping at local stores and boutiques. Shopping locally creates jobs, invests in your community, and provides shoppers with unique items. The importance of small, independent stores to the American economy cannot be overstated. The U.S. Small Business Administration found that small businesses employ just over 50 percent of the private sector workforce and create nearly two-thirds of the net new jobs over the last 15 years. In some sectors, small businesses offer positions with higher wages and better benefits than those available with larger national chains. As a result, employees can afford to live in the community, contribute to the tax base, and reinvest their dollars in the community. Local enterprises also invest in the community in ways national chains do not. Economists have found that dollars spent at neighborhood stores have a multiplier effect. Owners spend their business revenue within the region at community banks, newspapers, printers, or accountants. The money stays in the community, rather than leaking out to corporate headquarters located in another state. Studies have found that local, independent enterprises reinvest more than three times as much money in the local economy than a national chain. They are also much more likely to support non-profits. One study found that nonprofits received 250 percent more support from independent shops than from large corporations. Additionally, local independents are more likely to withstand an economic downturn and will work harder to stay open when times are tough. Owners of small boutiques are also more likely to engage in civic involvement, as the decisions they make will also impact their families and employees. Finally, local stores and boutiques offer customers with a unique selection of items not found in national chains. Small businesses cater to the needs and interests of their customers, rather than sell what is required by a national headquarters. As a result, these stores will innovate to compete with one another for customers. Increased competition leads to lower prices, quashing the myth that small businesses are more expensive than chains. Plus, the uniqueness of the items offered requires the owner and sales staff to become experts in their market, which translates to outstanding customer service. As an added benefit, locally owned shops can help preserve and promote regional character. Shopping for handmade goods unique to the region creates a demand for these items, which in turn keeps regional artisans and craftsmen employed. Shopping at local stores and boutiques may require a little effort, like getting dressed for starters. However, the benefits these businesses bring to your community just cannot be matched by national stores. When shopping at local boutiques, Portland residents should check out http://www.palomaclothing.com.
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