Shop Local - 7 Reasons Why

I have been thinking for a while about this topic. Today I believe it is time to write this editorial.
So I have compiled a list of reasons to shop locally:

1. Keep Money Local
Sales taxes fund our communities and provide vital services such as police and fire protection not to mention street repairs. Local businesses are also more likely to shop with other local businesses, thus keeping money moving in our local economy even longer. Local business is crucial to our cities continued growth and encourages other entrepreneurs to start other local businesses. Which leads more money circulating in the local community. According to research by a group called Civic Economics, says that when you spend $100 at local businesses, $73 remains in the local economy. Compared to only $43 when you shop a business that isn't local. For example the big box store, who sends their profits back to Arkansas or the grocer/convenience store who sends their money to Ohio.

2. Privacy
   Unlike some convenience and grocery stores in our city or neighboring communities with ties to other cities and states, the Baldwin City Market and Santa Fe Market doesn't invade your privacy by tracking what you buy with those privacy invading shopper loyalty cards.
   
3. Locally Made Products
Local businesses often sell locally made, which helps maintain the communities charm and distinction. As well as helps create more jobs.

4. Customer Service is Often Better
Local businesses generally hire people with more specific product expertise and invest in their employees for better customer service.
5. Local Businesses Invest in Our Community
Local businesses are owned by people who live in Baldwin City, who are less likely to leave and are more invested in the growth of the community. In addition, these same local businesses are less susceptible to national downturns and more likely to work harder to stay open. The most recent example, was an out of town newspaper, that decided to pull the plug on the local paper, because they weren't truly committed to our community. I don't want to speak ill of this other company, but if it had been local, it would have worked harder to stay in Baldwin City.

6. Jobs
   Say what you will, but collectively nationwide, local businesses are the largest employers. Individually they may be "small jobs," but overall they provide the majority of the jobs across the country.
   
7. Support Future Growth
   When you shop locally, you show pride in your community and help protect the businesses that make our city unique.