The holiday shopping season is in full swing.
You made it through Black Friday. You scored big on Cyber Monday. But there are still people you need to cross off your Christmas list!
Instead of heading to the same old department store chains and shopping malls, why not do something different and purchase gifts at locally owned stores where you live?
Show some love to the people in your neighborhood and write a few checks to local businesses!
There are benefits both to you and the community…
Major retailers are feeling pretty optimistic as the 2010 holiday shopping season is expected to improve slightly from 2009.
Americans spent an estimated $45 billion in stores and online over the Black Friday weekend.
Many shoppers are looking to avoid the hassle of fighting their way through the crowded mall after driving in circles for half an hour before finding an open parking spot.
That’s probably why Cyber Monday sales hit another record this year. Internet shoppers spent more than $1 billion on that day alone. But it’s estimated that $52 billion will be spent online over November and December.
That’s a lot of money floating around out there. But more of it needs to go to local business owners and less of it to the big chains. Here’s why…
It’s Good for the Economy
When you spend money at locally owned businesses, much more of that money stays in your community.
A study by the economic analysis company Civic Economics found that when $100 is spent at a local business , $68 stay in the community. That’s compared to just $43 out of $100 spent at a major retailer.
Remember, if you’re shopping at a local store that accepts personal checks, you keep even more of that money in your community because the merchant will not have to pay credit card interchange fees.
It’s true that major retailers also pay property taxes and provide employment where you live. However, they don’t have near the impact of small businesses owned by people who live in the same city as you.
Small businesses in your city support the community in many ways. They obviously provide jobs for people. In fact, economic experts all agree that the best way to create jobs growth is through small business growth.
Locally owned business are also more involved in civic and community events. They’re more likely to give to local charities, sponsor youth sports and support schools as well as the arts in your area.
It’s Good for Your Christmas Spirit
Even the biggest shopaholic can get burnt out by the jam-packed malls during the holiday season. But buying gifts at local shops can be an entirely different experience.
I’d be willing to be it will be a lot easier for you to feel some holiday cheer when you visit locally owned stores this Christmas. Unlike shopping online or at a massive discount store, you’ll actually get a very personal and pleasant customer service experience when you shop local.
Has this ever happened to you?
You’re at a store like Wal-Mart, and you need help finding something. But when you ask employees, they’re just as clueless as you. Never mind getting advice on a product you’re interested in! Half the time, employees at those big chains don’t even know where to find them!
But people who work in those locally owned stores are much more knowledgeable about what they’re selling. And they’ are more than happy to take the time to really help you out.
It’s Good for Gift Ideas
I noticed something after visiting a bunch of the big-name stores lately. They all have the same crap for pretty much the same price.
It’s true that prices might be a little higher at mom and pop shops on Main Street in your town. Those kind of businesses can’t really compete with the Wal-Mart’s of the world (at least not with prices).
But what they do offer, in addition to that awesome customer service, is higher quality products and better choices for you.
I know of a couple toy stores in my community that have a very unique selection of items you won’t find anywhere in the mall.
You probably know of some great places where you live too.
Maybe there’s a cool candy shop that makes mouth-watering chocolate fudge or a bakery that sells delicious cookies, Christmas pies and even a little fruit cake for people you don’t like that much.
When you shop for gifts at the mall, you’re always in danger of buying the same thing as someone else. That means the recipient of your mittens from Macy’s will have to go back to the mall to return them.
Plus, nobody likes to go out in a new sweater only to spot three other people wearing the same thing. But that’s what happens when you shop at the mall.
If you shop at a local clothing boutique in your area, you’re buying clothes that are unique instead of mass produced.
You can also find local craft shows and artists from where you live with even more unique gift ideas.
You’ll discover that spending a little extra time shopping at small businesses in your community is a great experience. You’ll feel better about yourself, and everyone will think you are the most amazing gift giver ever!
Check Advantage is a big fan of locally owned businesses all over the country. That’s because they are some of our most loyal customers. Our affordable business checks and check accessories help those merchants stay on top of their finances.
Don’t forget the people in your neighborhood this Christmas. To help you keep them top of mind…watch this classic Sesame Street video!
Image: Susie B / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Image: Simon Howden / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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