1∙More money is kept in the community because locally owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers, and farms.
2∙Economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.
3∙Competition and diversity leads to more choices. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based on the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices.
4∙Local businesses are owned by people who live in the community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community's future.
5∙Customer service is better because local businesses often hire people with more specific product expertise and more time is spent with each customer.
6∙Our one-of-a-kind local businesses are an integral part of our region's distinctive character.
7∙Locally owned businesses help reduce environmental impacts by requiring less international freight transportation. They also usually set up shop in town or city centers as opposed to developing on the fringe. This means less sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.
8∙Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community.
9∙Most new jobs are provided by local businesses; Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally.
10∙Local business owners give back to their communities. Nonprofit organizations receive an average of 350% greater support from local business owners than they do from non-locally owned businesses.
Explore the local businesses online at VISITvortex.com. There are photo slideshows and videos to help you decide where to go!
Remember, Shop Locally to Support Your Neighbors!
