From tiny train towns to major metropolitan areas, big businesses with national chains have infiltrated communities where locally owned companies once serviced residents. Though big-box stores are convenient one-stop shops, buying frequently from large corporations can take a toll on regional economies, and has been blamed for contributing to a lost sense of community around the nation.
Here are some of the top reasons you should consider buying from locally owned, independent shops:
Be Unique: It’s been said that communities garner a deepened bond based on the mercantile interaction and activities among its residents. Distinctive businesses give towns a unique quality and flavor that help define a community as interesting.
Be Charitable: Independently owned companies are said to be three times more likely than big businesses to donate money or goods to non-profits and town groups.
Be Sustainable: Doing business locally requires less energy use for transportation of goods and services and saves transit time. Patronizing local companies is a move towards being more environmentally conscious. It reduces urban sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.
Be an Economic Supporter: When you buy products or services from independent businesses, it is spent anywhere from six to fifteen times before leaving the community, thereby helping to perpetuate other local companies while strengthening the local economy.
Be an Investor: When local companies are run by members of the community, their owners are generally more inclined to invest in the community in both the present and future, helping it to sustain and succeed.
Be an Employment Advocate: Locally owned businesses create more jobs in the area, reducing unemployment rates. Oftentimes, these community-based businesses offer more competitive salaries and better benefits than their big-box counterparts.
Be a Community Supporter: Patronizing local businesses supports others in your community who own businesses and employ your friends and neighbors. These businesses are the economic engine of your community and often support local community groups and causes because is often the owner’s community too.
When you support local independently owned businesses, you cast your ballot for businesses that support your community, businesses that are eager to meet consumers’ needs in addition to the needs of your community, and businesses that employ your friends and neighbors.
As a local and independently owned business, Lord Baltimore Uniform offers personalized service to our clients – we love spoiling our customers – another reason people choose to buy from us! From uniform rentals to microfiber mops and towels, our company offers a wide range of products to service your company and make it run more efficiently.
To learn more about our products and services, please contact Joe Bateman at Lord Baltimore Uniform & Linen Rental by calling 1-800-292-1224, or visit our website today!
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Sources:
Top Ten Reasons to Support Locally-Owned, Independent Businesses