Chattanoogans know the importance of buying local - it is evident in the vibrant Frazier Avenue shopping district, numerous farmers markets and the revitalized Southside area. But they may not know the following facts.
Studies show that the economic impact of buying locally is three times higher than frequenting chain stores. That's because local businesspeople not only live in the community, they do business here. said Amy Walker Cherry, founder of Buy it Downtown, a gift card good at more than 80 local retailers. Local businesspeople have a vested interest in the community and its long-term success. They give their time and money to charitable organizations. They make a point of referring business to other local businesspeople.
Small local businesses are, collectively, the largest employer in the United States. They not only employ people in their stores, they also tend to buy more locally produced items, meaning more jobs for local producers. Numerous studies indicate that for every job created by a big box store, more than one job at the local level is displaced. They also take business away from local merchants and, therefore, the community. In addition, the numbers show that a big box chain setting up shop costs taxpayers more than new locally owned establishments.
Think of your favorite Chattanooga area restaurant or store. Chances are it isn't a chain.