© Shutterstock

Reasons to support local businesses -

There are a few reasons why you might want to support small businesses, and perhaps one of the most compelling is to make a positive impact on the local economy.

© Shutterstock

Help the local economy -

Entrepreneurship is needed and it should be supported and encouraged at a local level. From the local coffee shop, to the insurance broker and the local marketing company, all have a positive impact on the local economy. And you can play a role in it too.

© Shutterstock

Local businesses support communities and job creation -

Independent retailers often employ local people, and as such play a big role in job creation in the community. They also inspire members of the community to start their own businesses.

© Shutterstock

Going local is more sustainable -

Shopping at a local retailer means that the journey to go to the actual store is likely shorter than if you went to a big chain store.

© Shutterstock

Going local is more sustainable -

Many small businesses also source ingredients and materials locally, meaning the carbon footprint of the products you buy is more eco-friendly.

© Shutterstock

Local businesses put customer experience first -

It’s all about having a great personalized shopping experience. Shopping at a place where workers know your name is priceless.

© Shutterstock

They cater to local demands -

Small businesses operating locally meet the local market demands. You will likely find everything you need at your doorstep, including specialized products and foods.

© Shutterstock

Supporting local businesses -

So, now that we've looked at some of the reasons why it’s a good idea to support local businesses, let’s go through some easy ways to do so.

© Shutterstock

Actively look for local businesses -

Many businesses don’t have a local store and operate strictly online. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to do some research and actively look for local brands and services.

© Shutterstock

Visit a local farmer’s market -

If you live in an area where there is a farmer’s market, this is a great way to purchase fresh locally-sourced produce and help the local economy.

© Shutterstock

Buy (and gift) local artwork -

Why decorate with prints bought on Amazon, when you can have unique local artwork hanging on your walls, right?

© Shutterstock

Dine at local restaurants -

Visiting your local restaurants more than once will allow you to try a number of different dishes on the menu.

© Shutterstock

Order takeout and delivery -

And for the times when you really crave some foods and don’t feel like/don’t have time to cook, then make use of your local network of eateries.

© Shutterstock

Take a class -

Want to learn how to play an instrument or speak a new language? Look up local businesses that offer classes. Some might even offer online alternatives, and you will still be supporting an independent business.

© Shutterstock

Tag local businesses on social media -

In this day and age, social media plays a huge role in marketing, so simply by tagging the business you will be helping them out with free promotion. Going to the local restaurant? Tag it. Going to yoga class? Tag it too!

© Shutterstock

Comment, like, subscribe, and share -

And while we’re on the topic of social media, it’s really important to engage with the content of your favorite local businesses on social media. Follow their profiles, like and comment on their posts, subscribe to their YouTube channel if they have one, you get the picture.

© Shutterstock

Leave a positive review -

Let’s be honest, most people nowadays read reviews before buying a product or going to a place, so positive reviews can really make a difference. While there are specific websites where you can do this, depending on the type of business, Google is a good place to start.

© Shutterstock

Spread the word -

Recommend the business to your family, friends, and colleagues. Word of mouth is still a powerful tool in the promotion of a business, so go ahead and get the ball rolling.

© Shutterstock

Buy gift cards -

Instead of generic gift cards from big players, why not buy it from your local businesses? Surely, you will find something suitable.

© Shutterstock

Buy merch -

Just as you’d buy a t-shirt of your favorite band to support them, the same applies to local businesses. Some may have really cool t-shirts, tote bags, mugs, stickers, etc.

© Shutterstock

Order online -

Nowadays, most independent retailers have an online shop or sell at an online marketplace. Opt for these when purchasing products online instead of filling up your cart on mass online retailers where your business won’t make a big difference.

© Shutterstock

Get involved -

Sometimes local businesses need help and they’ll rely on the community to give them a hand. Perhaps they need a volunteer or help with revamping their image. Whatever it may be, see if you can get involved.

© Shutterstock

Hire local service providers -

Need a plumber? A band? A designer? Surely, you can source all these and more, locally. Hire within your local community and grow together.

© Shutterstock

Networking -

Small business alliances operate in some places. Helping each other out is key, and everyone can benefit. These groups sometimes organize networking events, as well as other initiatives, such as workshops. Perhaps you can get involved and help out small business owners.

© Shutterstock

Do your holiday shopping early -

Yes, this is an easy way to help out local business workers. They usually get very busy during the holidays, so why not ease their burden by shopping a bit earlier? Plus, you’ll escape those last-minute trips to buy presents too.

© Shutterstock

Respect workers -

It's important to treat service workers with respect. Try to be patient. Sometimes businesses can’t afford to employ more people, or they may encounter other problems that big businesses don’t have to worry about. This may have an impact on customer service, but it’s important to not forget to treat everyone kindly.

© Shutterstock

Tip generously -

Some workers get a large chunk of their wages through tips. Tipping etiquette varies around the world, but tipping generously is a way to support small business workers.

© Shutterstock

Sign-up for email lists/ newsletters -

This is a very simple way to show your support for local businesses. Plus, you might even get a few discount coupons out of it!

© Shutterstock

Stock up -

You will likely buy a number of items (including birthday presents!) throughout the year, so why not buy them in advance from local retailers?

Sources: (Small Business Finance) (Shopify) (LocaliQ) (Starling Bank)

See also: Top DIY marketing tips for small business owners

© Shutterstock