“It’s The Right Thing To Do.” (Yawn.)

Fri, 04/24/2009 - 1:21pm — Mary Schmidt

We’ve all heard this - for everything to buying local…to regular dental check-ups. But, knowing it’s right and actually doing it are two different things. Particularly when we’re in a rush and on a tight budget.

That’s why when I talk to people about buying local, I focus on the benefits to them rather than the "do gooder pitch" (although that's certainly valid...but see above about dental check-ups). Particularly if they don’t own a business, they’re simply not aware of the huge impact spending even 10% of their dollar can make on our community.

Here are just three reasons folks should buy local:

1. The owners are down the street, next door, standing right there. Unlike the CEO of a mega-company, local biz owners are usually working every day in the store or office. If you've got a problem, question, suggestion or attaboy - they're right there, ready to talk to you.

2. Locally-owned biz know the local needs. Unlike the big box stores, local biz customizes inventory (and pricing) to local tastes and budgets. Just as "hot" chile here is totally different than - say - in Boston. (Their idea of "hot" is my idea of baby food.)

3. People don’t have to call India for help. (See #1). For that matter, you can load the computer in the car and drive it back where you bought it.