Introduction
In an increasingly interconnected world, “Shop Local” campaigns have emerged as a powerful means of bolstering local economies, fostering community bonds, and supporting small businesses. These campaigns encourage residents to prioritize local merchants over larger corporate entities. Let’s delve into the myriad benefits of implementing “Shop Local” campaigns and explore effective strategies for local communities to embark on this transformative journey.
Part 1: The Benefits of “Shop Local” Campaigns
There are many benefits of “Shop Local” Campaigns. (Note to Ezekiel: This could be used at the same time on the title slide as the music is playing, or not use music at all)
Economic Revitalization:
“Shop Local” campaigns infuse fresh vigor into local economies. According to a study conducted by the American Independent Business Alliance, for every $100 spent at local businesses, approximately $68 returns to the local economy, compared to only $43 when spent at non-local businesses. This injection of funds fuels job creation, increases wealth for local residents, stimulates tax revenue, and generates a ripple effect of economic growth within the community.
Job Creation and Preservation:
Small businesses are significant contributors to job creation, and “Shop Local” campaigns amplify this impact. The Small Business Administration (SBA) notes that small businesses have generated 12.9 million net new jobs over the past 25 years, accounting for two out of every three jobs added to the US economy.[1] By choosing local businesses, communities foster an environment conducive to employment opportunities and job retention, ultimately enhancing residents’ overall quality of life.
Unique Community Identity:
Local businesses are often imbued with the character and essence of the community they serve. By supporting these businesses, communities preserve their distinct identity and create a sense of place. “Shop Local” campaigns celebrate the charm and diversity of local merchants, fostering community pride and connection.
Fund Public Services:
It is important motivation for people to understand the economics of how shopping locally directly benefits them. Shopping at local businesses generates increased taxes that support their own public services including schools, libraries, police, fire, and roads.
Charitable Giving
Local small businesses donate 250% more than large businesses to local non-profits and community causes. When you shop at a local business you are not only putting money back in your local economy, but you are also putting it back into local charitable causes too.
Environmental Sustainability:
“Shop Local” campaigns contribute to sustainable practices by reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping. Supporting local businesses means less transportation and packaging, leading to decreased emissions and a lighter environmental impact.
Part 2: Implementing “Shop Local” Campaigns
Implementing the right strategies will lead to greater “Shop Local” success.
Community Collaboration:
Engage local businesses, elected officials, residents, and community organizations to collectively champion the cause. Establish committees or working groups to strategize campaign activities, develop promotional materials, and coordinate events.
Educational Outreach:
Raise awareness about the benefits of “Shop Local” campaigns through social media, local newspapers, and community events. Share statistics about the economic impact of supporting local businesses to encourage residents to make informed choices.
Digital Presence:
Develop a dedicated website to showcase participating businesses, share success stories, and promote upcoming events. Utilize online channels to spotlight the unique offerings of local merchants. Chambers of commerce and economic development organizations across the country are implementing SizeUp Shop Local software on their websites to successfully accomplish this. It enables website visitors to search for and exclusively find businesses that are locally owned.
Promotional Activities:
Launch themed events, promotions, and discounts to entice shoppers to patronize local businesses. Collaborate with local artists, musicians, and food vendors to create vibrant community experiences that draw people to neighborhood businesses.
Existing National Events:
Leverage your “Shop Local” efforts by incorporating them with established national and local small business celebrations. American Express actively promotes one of the biggest “Shop Local” days of the year. It’s called “Small Business Saturday,” and is on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. There are many other established national and local small business celebrations such as Small Business Week and National Entrepreneurship Month.
Partnerships with Schools and Nonprofits:
Forge partnerships with educational institutions and nonprofit organizations to involve them in the campaign. Encourage schools to incorporate “Shop Local” concepts into their curriculum and collaborate with nonprofits for joint events that spotlight local businesses.
Conclusion
“Shop Local” campaigns stand as a beacon of community empowerment, nurturing local economies, and forging lasting connections. The benefits span from economic prosperity and job creation to preserving community identity and funding public services. By fostering collaboration, educating the public, and embracing innovative promotional strategies, local communities can transform these campaigns into catalysts for positive change, reinforcing the concept that when residents choose local, everyone wins.
[1] “Small Business Facts: Small Business Job Creation” US Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy. Apr 26, 2022