The Power Of Shopping Local

[Fred T. Gruber Jr.]

As an owner of a local small business, I am a huge advocate of shopping local. Since most of our work comes from our local community, I feel it is only right to return the favor. I know many people that look for deals and drive 20 minutes, just to save a few dollars. I think that is counterproductive on so many levels. Here are some advantages to doing business, locally.

1. Better Service: A local vendor, that is part of your community, is looking for your repeat business and referrals. They will usually take better care of you and make it impossible to want to do business with anyone else. If something goes wrong, the small business owner will make it a priority to fix the problem. The big box stores or online companies aren't always as easy to deal with.
2. Better Value: Many people assume that shopping online or at a big box store will always save them money. Sometimes that is true but often I have found the best deals locally. When you shop online, you sometimes have to pay for shipping and or other fees.
3. Supporting your local economy: Most local business owner live in your town. Many times, their kids go to school with yours. By shopping locally, you are supporting families in your community, not a big corporation.
4. You get what you give:  Quite often, people will do business with people that use them. We clean carpets for our insurance brokers office, investment brokers office, kids doctors office, favorite restaurant etc... 

Here's a perfect example. I was in the market for a new guitar. I had done much research and tried a few out, before deciding on which one I wanted. I could have bought the guitar online from a national vendor. I decided to go to the local guitar shop and find out what the would do for me. They were able to meet the best price. I was also able to barter with them, to defer some of the cost. The owner also threw in some extras, as well. All in all, this ending up being a better deal. They have earned my business due to being flexible,more knowledgable and honest.

Anytime I need something, I always come to sites like this and the chamber of commerce first. Also, if you like a business, shout it out on Facebook, Twitter and Google+

[Justin Harkey]

Agreed!