Buy Local

The vital core of our economy is comprised of small businesses. Most new jobs are created by small businesses. Small businesses provide personal service with competitive pricing and are there when we need them.There is hardly a product or a service that is not of equal or better quality found in a large chain stores that is not available from a local merchant, warehouse, or manufacturer.

Why then do we insist on shopping at the big-box stores, or even on the Internet? While big box stores pay taxes, profits are sent away to fat cats who care not about our local economy. Internet sites don’t even pay local taxes!

If you own a business, you count on local people to purchase your goods and services. Do you return the favor?

Do you seek out the many wonderful locally owned restaurants in your community, or do you take your family to national chains? Do you retain a far-off consultant instead of finding an equally competent person in your own back yard? Do you purchase hardware or lumber from local merchants or do you go to the big box stores?

My wife and I buy groceries exclusively from local chain markets, notably Heinens. Friends have often commented that this is a luxury as we are paying too much for our groceries. This is a myth perpetuated by the large chains. My wife has comparison shopped on more that one occasion and has found Heinens prices to be competitive, and in some cases lower, than the Giant Eagle chain stores nearby.

In Nothern Ohio COSE is sponsoring a campaign to encourage people to buy locally. I encourage you to visit www.ibuyneo.com to check it out.

It may be convenient to purchase on-line or at a big-box store. But, is it the right thing to do? Is it really helping the local economy? Do the right thing. Support your local businesses.