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How Shopping Small Actually Supports Communities

With so much holiday shopping dominated by big-box retailers and online giants, the importance of supporting smaller, local businesses often takes a back seat. However, the act of shopping small is a powerful catalyst for fostering vibrant, thriving communities.

As the holiday season picks up speed and consumers continue on their gift-buying journeys, it's crucial to recognize the great impact of choosing to shop small and the real importance we should all consider. We highlighted some of our top reasons around why shopping small is a meaningful way to support communities year-round.

1. Shopping Small: Direct Impact on The Local Economy

When you choose to shop small, you're directly contributing to the economy within your own community and backyard. Unlike large corporations, small businesses are more likely to circulate their earnings within the local economy. The American Independent Business Alliance, has said that for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 stays in the community, compared to only $43 from non-local businesses. This financial circulation around local businesses goes back to support local jobs, encourage entrepreneurship, and help to build a robust economy.

2. Unique & More Personalized Gift Opportunities

One of the joys of shopping small lies in the fun of discovering unique, one-of-a-kind items that create the most magical memories with your loved ones. Local businesses often offer a multitude of handcrafted, locally sourced products and goods, providing a refreshing change to mass-produced items. You not only gift your loved ones something special, but also support the artisans and small biz entrepreneurs who pour their passion into creating these unique items. Who doesn’t appreciate a personalized, more sentimental touch, especially during the holidays.

3. Environmental & Sustainable Impact

A fact of the matter is that shopping small is more sustainable. Local businesses tend to have shorter supply chains, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Just as well, smaller-scale production often means less waste and a more mindful, ethical approach to sourcing materials. By supporting small businesses, you’ll contribute to a more eco-friendly community and promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.

4. Preserving The Character of The Community

Each local business is a single thread in the beautiful, diverse tapestry of a community's character. From small, curated bookstores to delicious coffee shops, these types of establishments contribute to the unique identity (and personality!) of a neighborhood. Participating in preserving the distinctive charm of your community by shopping small supports bringing more character and longevity to local streets.

5. Building Lasting Relationships

Small businesses thrive on personal connections and support from the community. When you shop small, you're not just making a transaction; you're building relationships. Local business owners often have a deep understanding of their customers' preferences and needs, providing a personalized and friendly shopping experience that you just don’t get with large retailers and corporations.

Throughout the whole year, not just during the holidays, consider the impact of choosing to shop at local businesses and how YOU can make a real change. From economic sustainability to unique, personalized gifts, the benefits of shopping small extend far beyond the one purchase.

We encourage you to participate in our Be Local Holiday Shop & Save Pass this month and take a look at the wide array of discounts, offers, and deals at so many incredible small businesses around Lake Oswego and West Linn. This passport contains dozens of participating locations and is filled with fantastic savings and experiences that directly support our small businesses. The more you check in, the more you save! Shop small for a big impact this holiday season through December 31st. Get your FREE Holiday Pass here and let’s #BeLocal!