It is hard to believe that we have arrived at another holiday season…where did 2021 go? Am I alone in feeling that way? Regardless, as I look ahead to the final month of the year, I am reminded at just how important it is to show support to our local retailers throughout the holidays.
Recently I read a report that IBM published that said that online shopping moved ahead during the pandemic by 5 years! That’s a massive switch in a short time. Our local small businesses have been working hard to ensure they are keeping up with the ever-changing digital trends, but even the most savvy small business know how hard it is to compete with these massive online retailers.
I am asking for your help this holiday season – will you consider setting a percentage of your holiday spending to go to our local small businesses? If we all do it, it will add up to make a big difference for these businesses and their employees. It’s especially important as we all continue to navigate the impacts of the pandemic.
If you’re looking for a great list of local retailers – check this out! And if you’re looking for a few more reasons to support local this year – check out my Top 10 list:
- Small businesses employ your friends, family and neighbors.
- Small businesses often have inventory in stock right now – no more worry about supply chain delays!
- Small businesses are ready to provide exceptional customer service – perhaps even helping you hunt down the perfect gift for the hard to buy for person in your life!
- Small businesses sponsor and support our local sports teams & nonprofits!
- Small businesses encourage their employees to actively volunteer in our community!
- Small businesses make our community unique from all others!
- Small businesses help make our community more beautiful from doing clean-up and beautification activities to taking pride of place ownership in how their storefront looks.
- Small businesses carry unique products and services that you cannot find other places.
- Small businesses can often get the same items that you see at larger retailers…and help you save on shipping costs!
- Small businesses are the heart and soul of our business community – let’s rally around them this holiday season!
I wish you and your families a very happy, healthy and prosperous holiday season. The Chamber is excited for 2022 and all that it will bring as we work together to move our community forward.