5 Reasons Why Shopping Small Makes a Big Difference
In a world dominated by large corporations and online companies, the positive impact and the joy of shopping small is often under appreciated. Supporting small businesses is more than just a feel-good gesture; it can lead to significant benefits for both the community and you, the consumer. Here are five reasons why shopping small truly makes a significant difference.
1. Personalized Customer Service
One of the standout features of small businesses is their dedication to personalized customer service. When you shop small, you often interact with owners and staff who genuinely care about your experience. Here at Modern House Numbers, you might find yourself interacting directly with owners Brandy and Rick. Always looking for new ways to improve their customers' shopping and ordering experience, Brandy and Rick continue to make building connections with their clients a priority. Whether it's adding new products, offering thoughtful design and installation advice, or refining the ordering process, their commitment to customer satisfaction is always clear. This kind of attention not only makes shopping stress-free but also creates a sense of community with customers.
2. High-Quality Products
Small businesses routinely prioritize quality over quantity, ensuring that every product is crafted with care and attention to detail. They often curate unique, high-quality items that you won't find in larger stores. When you shop small, you're often bringing home something special and distinctive.
Modern House Numbers, for instance, offers a unique collection of fonts and finishes and craft beautiful, custom-made pieces for each customer. A lot of thought has gone into their designs. With their architectural background, Brandy and Rick have successfully incorporated design principles while also prioritizing sustainability in their manufacturing processes. The technology they use to cut each number, letter, and plaques was specifically chosen for its efficiency and ability to minimize material waste. This commitment has resulted in products that are both distinctive and built to last. In a marketplace where many products from larger stores are cheaply made and end up in landfills, their thoughtful approach truly stands out.
3. Fostering Innovation
One of the things we love most about small businesses is their knack for breaking away from corporate norms and industry standards. They bring fresh ideas and unique approaches that really set them apart! Unlike larger corporations, small entrepreneurs are more inclined to take risks and explore new concepts. Their products frequently embody the passion and creativity of their owners.
Modern House Numbers emerged from a simple home renovation challenge faced by Brandy and Rick. Frustrated by the lack of affordable, modern address numbers for their Tucson, Arizona home, they used their background to design their own. As more people asked about their house numbers, they realized they had a wonderful opportunity to start their own business. This spirit of innovation not only enriches the marketplace but also fosters diversity and uniqueness. When you support small businesses, you champion a culture of creativity and progress that benefits everyone.
4. Strengthening the Local Economy
Shopping small directly benefits your local economy. When you spend your money at local businesses, a larger portion of it stays in the community. Small businesses play a vital role in creating jobs and generating local tax revenue, which supports schools, infrastructure, and public services. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, small businesses accounted for 55 percent of net job creation in the U.S. from 2013 to 2023. By choosing to shop local, you’re not just making a purchase, you're investing in your community’s economic health and helping to foster a more vibrant local environment.
5. Building Community Connections
Finally, small businesses are often the heart of the community. They host events, support local charities, and create spaces where people can gather and connect. These connections can lead to a stronger, more supportive community where everyone benefits from each other’s success. Small businesses, like Modern House Numbers, are often involved in charitable efforts, whether it's sponsoring local teams, contributing to cleanup projects, or volunteering for community fundraisers. Local charities often struggle to attract attention and assistance from big corporations, so they truly appreciate the backing of small businesses. Their support not only helps these initiatives thrive but also builds connections within the community.
In Conclusion
In an era where convenience often eclipses connection, it’s important to remember the powerful impact of supporting small businesses. From personalized service to unique products and community engagement, shopping small makes a tangible difference in our lives and in our communities. So next time you’re getting ready to click that online order button or head to a big-box store, consider exploring your local options first. Your choices can help create a thriving community that values innovation, quality, and connection.
rick mclain, author
Rick is a licensed architect at Repp McLain Design & Construction. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Arizona and an MS from the Department of Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). When he’s not designing and fabricating he enjoys spending time with Brandy, Jack, Avery & Taylor and restoring his grandfather’s Ford pickup truck. Learn more about Rick on LinkedIn.
You can learn more about Rick on the Repp McLain Website, on LinkedIn, at the AIA Website, or on Facebook.
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