As I look at my calendar, I can’t help but notice that the Holidays are coming fast! The Christmas season is an important time to support local businesses in our community.  Especially this year.  The Covid-19 virus has drastically affected our shops and restaurants.

 Shopping local is the act of everyday consumers, like you, making the decision to buy from a local business instead of going to a large retailer. Shopping locally is the way to maintain our unique community

 According to an assessment of the Advantages of Shopping at Locally Owned Businesses by Michigan State University, when you shop locally, you help create jobs not only for the business owners but also create an environment for many other essential businesses and professions to be successful. Local economic growth attracts new talent and professionals, who may, in turn, create businesses of their own, enhancing our local economy.

 Buying from a locally owned business conserves energy and resources in the form of less fuel for transportation and less packaging.  Buying local keeps money circulating within the local economy. Data shows that local retailers return 52 percent of their revenue back into the local economy, compared to just 14 percent for national chain retailers. Money circulating through the local economy benefits everyone who is a part of each transaction.

Online shopping takes money out of our local economy.  So, if you prefer to buy online, look for one of our local businesses who have an online presence.  Another benefit of shopping local is it is convenient and easy.

 Local businesses are owned by people who live in the community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future. Shopping at local businesses creates more local jobs than shopping at major chain or online companies. Local businesses not only pay their employees, they also spend money at other local businesses. That means by buying local, you help create jobs for your friends and neighbors, contribute to improved public infrastructure, and invest in your community both socially and economically. Local business owners know you, and you know them.

 Join us in our 2nd Annual “Brick Before You Click” campaign as part of our “Holidaze” promotion this season.  Visit www.MainStreetDeLand.org for more information and to support our 35 for 35 Anniversary fundraising campaign. 

 See you Downtown!

Wayne Carter
Executive Director
MainStreet DeLand Association