by Melissa Macker, Executive Director
It’s always a great idea to shop locally, but this year it’s more important than ever. Not only is it great for the economy, it’s enjoyable as well! As you do your holiday shopping, here are four reasons to shop at local small businesses.
1. It’s good for your city. For every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $73 remains in the local economy. For every $100 spent at a big chain store, only $43 remains in the local economy. If you’re shopping online and out of state, then almost nothing is going back to your local economy. While no one likes paying taxes, taxes are required for cities to provide services like fire stations and road maintenance. Macon businesses pay Macon property taxes, business licenses, sales tax, and more. Macon businesses provide local jobs to your neighbors, who in turn spend money at local businesses. When a local small business does well, everyone wins.
2. Local businesses need your help. 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone. Small businesses have been particularly affected by the coronavirus. Shops and restaurants had to shut their doors completely for a month or more. Festivals and craft fairs—a main stay for artists and other creative entrepreneurs—were cancelled. Entrepreneurs are working hard to adapt, to provide a safe shopping experience, or to find ways to sell online, but it’s not the same. A large corporation won’t notice whether you spent your money there, but that small business owner appreciates your $30 purchase more than you know.
3. Shopping at a local business is a fun experience. That big chain store is the same no matter where you go in any city in America. You could be in Arizona or Alabama, and it would all look the same. But you can’t find Travis Jean, Gallery West, The 567 Center, Macon Arts, Golden Bough Bookstore, or Fresh Produce Records anywhere else. At each of them you’ll find interesting people who love where they work, and would be more than happy to tell you all about every single thing in their store or gallery if you ask.
4. You can find some really unique gifts. Whether you shop in a store, make a purchase through Facebook, or buy online from a local artist, locally made gifts are something special. That piece of jewelry, handmade bowl, painted Christmas ornament, or handwoven towel is truly one-of-a-kind. Even if there are others like it, no two are exactly alike. When someone receives something made by a local artist, they know you really put some thought into finding the perfect gift. It’s something they can cherish.