As consumers, we have the power to make a difference in our local economies by choosing to shop local. Shopping locally in Northwest AR just makes sense! Supporting local businesses not only helps them thrive but also benefits the NWA as a whole. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the benefits of shopping local and why it’s important to consider this option when making purchasing decisions.
How Important are Locally Owned Bussinesses?
One of the most significant benefits of shopping local is that it supports small businesses in our communities. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, accounting for more than 99% of all businesses in the United States. By shopping at local stores, we help them stay afloat and grow, which creates more job opportunities for people in our communities. In fact, according to the Small Business Administration, small businesses create two out of every three net new jobs in the private sector.
Another benefit of shopping local is that it helps to keep money in our local economy. When we shop at large chain stores, the money we spend often goes to their corporate headquarters, which can be located anywhere in the world. On the other hand, when we shop at local businesses, the money stays in our community, where it can be reinvested in other local businesses, schools, and services. Studies have shown that for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 stays in the community, compared to only $43 when spent at a chain store.
The NWA Community is Important
For those of us that love living in NWA, shopping local can also help to create a sense of community and boost the local economy in other ways. Local businesses often support community events, sponsor little league teams, and contribute to other local causes. They are invested in the community and want to see it thrive. By supporting these businesses, we are helping to build a stronger community and a better quality of life for everyone who lives there.
In addition to supporting small businesses and keeping money in our local economy, shopping local can also benefit the environment (and everybody knows how awesome the Northwest Arkansas environment is). 
Local businesses often source their products from nearby suppliers, reducing the need for long-distance transportation and the associated carbon emissions. By shopping at local farmers’ markets, for example, we can reduce our carbon footprint and support sustainable agriculture practices. According to a study by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, small independent businesses use 25% less energy than big-box stores, which can translate into significant environmental benefits.
Lets Have Fun Shopping in Northwest AR!
Furthermore, shopping local can be a more personalized and enjoyable experience. Local business owners are often passionate about their products and services, and they take pride in providing personalized customer service. They can also offer unique products and services that may not be available at larger chain stores. By shopping local, we can discover new and interesting items that we may not have found otherwise.
The Stats
Now that we’ve explored some of the benefits of shopping local, let’s take a look at some statistics that illustrate the impact of this choice. According to a study by the American Independent Business Alliance, independent businesses generate 2.6 times more local economic impact per dollar than chain stores. In addition, a study by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that if every family in the United States spent an extra $10 per month at a locally owned, independent business instead of a national chain store, over $9.3 billion would be directly returned to local economies.
It’s also worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of shopping local. Many small businesses have struggled to stay afloat during the pandemic, and some have had to close their doors permanently. By shopping local, we can help support these businesses and contribute to the recovery of our local economies.
In conclusion, shopping local is a powerful way to support small businesses, keep money in our local economies, and build stronger communities. By choosing to shop at local stores and farmers’ markets, we can make a difference in our own communities and contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant future.
Go go check out some of our awesome local businesses!
