Shopping Local Helps Acadiana
Nov 17, 2015 01:49PM ● By News Desk
The holiday season is here, and that means one thing — shopping! Whether you have a huge family to buy for or plan to purchase presents for just a few friends, the money you spend makes a real difference.
Where you choose to spend that money makes even more of a difference. While shopping at the mall or big-box stores may seem convenient, there are some very compelling reasons to shop locally owned businesses this year — the main reason being — the money you spend stays here in Acadiana.
When you shop the mega retailers, your money is almost sure to go to an out of state
corporation. However, shopping at a locally owned service company, retailer or boutique is much different.
When you spend your money here in Acadiana, that money (for the most part) stays here. Business owners use the money you spend to pay employees, buy more inventory and purchase goods and services from other local businesses. This virtuous cycle is repeated over and over again, improving the community and enhancing the value of local shopping choices.
Chances are you know someone who works at a locally owned business — from your hair stylist to the store clerk who helps you pick just the right gift for that special someone. When you shop or do business with them, you encourage the hiring of others, helping that business thrive, which creates a snowball effect, driving more shops, boutiques, restaurants and other businesses to open. The dollars you invest in local stores and restaurants is much more meaningful, and has a much greater impact than the same dollar spent at a big-box store.
It’s not all about altruism. There are definite benefits for shoppers as well, not the least of which is a chance to buy unique items you simply can’t get anywhere else.
So this year, when you feel the need to shop, stop by locally owned merchants first. You’ll be supporting our local economy, creating good jobs and helping to improve the local community for years to come.
