Why Supporting Local Matters!

Take a moment to think about how often you shop in person at a store. Do you frequently use the pick up at store option or deliver to your home? How often do you order your food online for delivery?

We know how easy it is to jump on an app to order your groceries, dinner, house hold items, clothing, etc. and have it delivered or scheduled for a pick up order. With your busy work and life schedule this may be the easiest and fastest option. However, it is taking away from our locally owned businesses who have poured their hard work into our community. 

Our small business owners may not offer pick up at store or delivery, but they do offer value and support to our community. When you spend money at a small business, a portion of that sale stays in our community. These businesses are the ones who are more likely to sponsor your golf tournament, school fundraiser, sport teams and more. By shopping local you can help create more jobs, help their business grow and your community grow.

Did you know there are ways to support a small business without making a purchase?

Here are some ways you can help any small business in your community:

• Leave a review on Google and Facebook for any small business you have used recently. A great review with a comment will help their page move higher on the web when someone is searching for a specific business. 
• Engage on their social media platforms. Like and follow their page, share their page or posts and engage with their content. A simple like or comment can increase their online presence, making it easier for potential new customers to find them
• You may not need a product or service from the business, but you may know someone who does. Word of mouth and referrals are very powerful and meaningful to small businesses. 
• Need a gift idea for Christmas or a birthday? Many small businesses offer gift cards! This will encourage others to visit their business.
• Looking for a place to hold a meeting or fundraiser? Call your local coffee shop or restaurants to see if they can accommodate a party your size, or if they offer fundraising opportunities. Many local VFW's and American Legion's have different size halls to hold your small meetings or small events. 

I encourage every one of you to make it a goal to stop by a locally owned business and make a purchase or call a locally owned business next time you need your car or home serviced. Whether it is a local coffee shop, produce market, plumber or mechanic, your support could change their day! Your support makes a difference in your community!

#lovewhereyoulive #shoplocal #supportsmallbusinesses #ShopCollinsville
- Katie Slimick