Why Shop Local?
Elizabethtown is growing, and is on it’s way to becoming one of the fastest growing cities in Kentucky. Part of the incredible growth is the beautiful locally owned businesses that have sprouted throughout the town. But, why even bother shopping at localling owned businesses?
When you support a local business, you’re also supporting your town, city, and neighborhood. Businesses pay sales taxes to the city and county the business is located in. Stray to a big box business elsewhere and that money isn’t benefiting your community at all. Plus, that tax money is used to support public schools, parks, roads, and sidewalks, as well as fund public service workers, like firefighters. In essence, it strengthens your own local economy. It makes Elizabethtown, or your home a better place to live.
Small business owners strive to survive and one of the biggest advantages they have over large retailers is the ability to provide more personable, hands-on, and memorable customer service. Local businesses also often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers, which in turn creates even better customer service.
You'll raise your property values. Lively, vibrant neighborhood shopping streets are considered an advantage when selling a home. They make your property more valuable.
Where we shop, where we eat and have fun – all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefit.
Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community, provide the most jobs to residents.
Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future.
Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community.
How can you help?
Shop small and local of course and make your town an even better place to live!
Give shout-outs on social media by promoting your favorite shops and small businesses.
Sign up for local business loyalty programs. Not only will you be supporting them; you will save money and get discounts.
Photo taken at Dewster’s - a locally owned ice cream shop:
Facebook: @dewstershomemadeicecream
Instagram: @dewstershomemadeicecream
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