Last Saturday was the American Express program “Small Business Saturday.”

Shopping at your locally-owned small businesses during the holidays is a good idea; but  shopping locally on a regular day-to-day, week-in and week-out is even better.

For the shopper there is easy access and parking, friendly shopkeepers who are willing to spend the time helping you find what you are looking for and if they don’t have it in stock they will get it for you. To be successful local businesses need to provide you with the services and products you want so they listen and pay attention closely.

More importantly the money spent at our local businesses supports our local economy and keeps our community thriving.    Where we live, shop and play is the very foundation of our community. When you buy your or plumbing supplies from a local hardware store, or get your hair done at the local salon a greater percentage of that money is used to purchase from other local businesses, pay for local utilities, payroll and more. Shopping local creates a domino effect that helps to support our community.  Studies have also shown that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, $45 stays in the local economy, creating jobs and expanding the city’s tax base.  For every $100 spent at a national chain or franchise store, only $14 remains in the community.

Make a commitment to shop local on a regular basis. If your neighbor sells it buy it.