healthy living
Investing in your community Support local businesses for the holidays
LEA HANSON
START SMALL It’s hard to pass up a deal at a large box store or an online clearance event. However, making even the smallest change in shopping behavior makes a difference. Consider making a goal of shifting at least 10 percent of your non-local purchases to a local business.
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s the holiday season creeps in it is important to remember to support local business, the local economy, and our friends and neighbors as we prepare, plan, and purchase. YOU’RE INVESTING IN THE COMMUNITY Dollars spent locally help build our local economy. For every dollar spent in northern Colorado, approximately 60 cents stays here recirculating and reinvesting in our community while only about 40 cents stays here when we spend a dollar at a non-local business. One of the biggest reasons this matters is the local taxes you pay. Everything from schools to roads, to downtown holiday décor depends to some extent on tax dollars. The less tax revenue that comes in, the less money there is to spend on things like infrastructure, services, and social programs. LOCAL STORES HAVE WHAT YOU WANT By shopping locally you will likely have access to a broader array of items carefully chosen by those who know your community well because they live and work there. 16
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SHOW SUPPORT WITH MORE THAN MONEY Even if your budget does not allow you to spend a lot of money in locally owned stores, there are still plenty of ways you can support locally owned businesses throughout the holidays and all year long. Post, tweet, or Instagram about a new local find, a pastry from your local coffee shop, a dress at the neighborhood boutique, or the great customer service you had at your local bookstore. Further, say positive things about local businesses and leave positive reviews on online review sites. Finally, recommend your locally owned business to out-oftown guests and friends who live in different parts of the area; visitors and tourists always appreciate being steered towards establishments with a local flavor.
ADDITIONAL TIPS Use cash. Each time you buy something with a debit or credit card, the retailer pays a processing fee. These processing fees add up and small business can save/ make a lot more money if they can avoid paying them. Paying in cash can also help you stick to your spending budget. Leave debit and credit cards at home and bring an envelope of cash you’ve decided to spend instead. Once your envelope is empty, you’re out of money and it’s impossible to spend more. STAY CONNECTED. Most businesses use social media so it’s easy to engage and interact in these platforms. Get on their mailing lists and follow/like them on social media platforms you use to get the best deals, find out when sales are happening, and ensure you don’t miss a great opportunity to get something you will love while supporting your community.