Encouraging the patronage of local businesses isn’t just a catchphrase—it holds profound significance. What’s the tangible impact on a small business, and subsequently the local economy, when it operates in a city with a more modest population, like Nixa, Missouri?
In this article, Downtown Nixa Mark Anderson discusses the significance of small businesses in small towns – and why it’s essential to support them.
The Digital Age: The Internet’s Impact on Small Businesses
The internet completely changed how people shop. According to Statista, nearly 80% of Americans shop online.
Why?
Research noted that people shop online because of convenience. Because of this, it didn’t take long before well-established companies took advantage of this trend. These days, it’s easy to order groceries via Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods, or Costco.
However, as convenient as it is to access items from giant groceries, this lessens the opportunity for locals to provide the same products the shoppers have in their app’s cart.
For instance, locals frequently hire Nixa Catering Co., a well-loved veteran and family-owned company, to cater to their events – they’re known for their healthy yet tasty steaks.
The problem is that other widely known restaurants also offer the same. And they can advertise their food to a bigger audience, making their online presence far more visible. Therefore, any exposure to Nixa Catering Co. can significantly boost their business.
But besides providing local residents more profits, what other ways do supporting local businesses improve the community?
Let’s take a look at its advantages:
Supporting Small Businesses Improves the Local Economy
Nixa residents operating a business in Nixa must pay a tax base to the local government. These local businesses’ taxes can help improve the parks and schools the town is known for.
For the third time in a row, the U.S. News Best High Schools has ranked Nixa High School as the best high school in the Springfield metro area.
Moreover, entrepreneurs starting a business in Nixa can help other locals.
Provides More Job Opportunities
iring local residents is also better for businesses.
- What if the neighbor’s teenage kid is looking for a summer job?
- What if the cousin who lives nearby is trying to earn extra money to feed their baby?
- What if the town’s beloved mechanic got into an accident and can no longer work like they used to?
Imagine the impact if fellow residents and business owners chose to hire them instead. This not only forges stronger connections among those who share a community, but it also inspires support from other locals who catch wind of the camaraderie. Moreover, having employees from different towns means daily commutes to Nixa. Apart from the cost and time involved, this daily journey also takes a toll on the environment. Opting for local hires not only benefits individuals but contributes to a more sustainable and interconnected community.
Supporting Local Businesses Lessens Environmental Impact Everyone
knows that online shopping and food delivery are convenient – because delivery services ensure the items or food get to the consumers on time.
Moreover, ordering items overseas also means a ship, plane, train, or truck must carry the items to arrive at the shopper’s doorstep – this process contributes to 8% of greenhouse gas (et al. MIT Climate Portal).
In addition, their mode of transportation leaves a carbon footprint that can affect the fresh air of Nixa.
To prevent this, opt for items available nearby. If they’re 5 minutes away, try walking there instead. If it’s slightly farther, biking is also an option.
Conclusion
Shopping from local businesses helps build a better community – their taxes go back to the town, allowing more town improvements. But it also reduces carbon footprint and provides more job opportunities for fellow locals.
Nixa residents are humble and passionate about their businesses. Expect that they make (or sell) every product with careful consideration for their customers and their needs.