Why Shop Local?

Shopping is considered therapeutic by many and when you shop local, you're also contributing to the health and wellbeing of your neighborhood and community in more ways than you may realize.

One-of-a-kind, local businesses help define the culture and character of our communities. Unlike chain stores that look the same anywhere else, local shops distinguish the uniqueness of our communities.

Shopping local impacts your bottom line, too. Research shows $68 of every $100 spent at an independently owned business remains in our local economy compared to only $43 spent at chain stores. This local re-investment translates into a stronger tax base, better schools, transportation and emergency response services for you and your family. These local shops also donate more per sales dollar to local non-profits, events and teams compared to national chains. 250% more donations which directly impact you and your community. Locally owned businesses are owned by your friends and neighbors who are less likely to leave and are more invested in your community’s present and future--just like you.

Businesses owned by locals also tend to set up shop in small town or city centers which generally means less congestion, sprawl, habitat loss and pollution. As a matter of fact, residents of neighborhoods with more local businesses log 26% fewer driving miles, another bonus for reducing the environmental impact of shopping. Who knew shopping local could help lessen our carbon footprint?

Yet another way local businesses directly impact our individual lives is by creating more and better jobs. Up to 90% of net new jobs in the US are created by locally owned businesses. As a matter of fact, the largest employers nationally are small, locally owned businesses who hire from within the community. Employees of locally owned businesses tend to spend more time with customers, clients and patrons because they are their neighbors, relatives and friends. This interpersonal commitment also extends to the salesperson’s better understanding of the locally sold products. And in terms of product selection, because small businesses select products based on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, a broader range of product choices and prices are available for local customers.

So let the SHOPPING LOCAL begin and give back to your community during this season of GIVING. The health and prosperity of our communities are our responsibility and history teaches entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that promote their one-of-a-kind character. Let’s work together to make the best use of our community space.  Check out our new store locator and help support your local business that supports TWINE.