ArtVan, Brickwood,Annie Laurie’s, and Spanish Street Farmacy, are just a few examples of locally owned businesses here in Cape Girardeau! These businesses have everything from clothes, furniture, decor, and groceries. Of course, anyone could get these same items at Walmart or the mall but shopping locally has a huge impact on the community that most people have no idea about.
When someone chooses to shop local more money that is spent is kept in the local economy. I know what everyone is thinking, local shops are SO expensive. Did you know that for every 100 dollars spent in local stores about 70 dollars is kept in the community? As for chain stores, for every 100 dollars only 43 dollars is put back to the town. Also, locally owned businesses are twice as likely to make donations rather than chain stores. Meaning the money you spend on everyday items will be put back into parks, schools, roads, and programs that people in our everyday lives partake in. For example, Melaina’s Magical Playground was built here in Cape Girardeau about four years ago. This park has patted mats instead of rocks or wood chips, braille, sensory play, and inclusive swings which makes it easy for children of all abilities to play! Where did this money come from? Donations from local business that were made possible because the town’s citizens chose to support their business!
Due to local ownership of businesses being local people, they have real life connections with other citizens of the community. These local owners tend to be involved with the town’s development and political stance. The more powerful the local business is the more influence it will have on the public. Making it easy for citizens to shop what they believe! The main goal of all local shops is to provide something that you cannot buy anywhere else. Local business owners produce for their local buyers, thus giving the shopper, YOU, a choice in what you want to see in stores! The clothing bought will be one of a kind and it will bring more attraction to such a small town. More attraction means more revenue brought in which gives more of a chance to improve the conditions and opportunities of the community. Saving the Earth? Shopping locally covers that too! Businesses who create or farm their own product have a smaller carbon footprint. Unlike chain stores there is little to no packaging, less transportation (which means less fuel), and chemical/pesticides free food! This lowers the amount of packaging that ends up in landfills and promotes healthier eating! Choosing to shop local is a definite no brainier! As a citizen of any town there will always be the option to save the Earth, improve everyday programs, and be the supporter of the local community!
Miara Williams
Ms. Harner's EN100 Blog 