Shopping locally isn’t just a feel-good choice. It’s one of the most impactful ways residents can support their community’s economic health.
When you spend money at a locally owned business, significantly more of that dollar stays close to home. About $68 of every $100 spent at a local business remains in the community, compared to a much smaller share at national chains (Capital One Shopping). Some studies show local businesses recirculate nearly 50% of their revenue locally, while chain stores return closer to 14% (MIT Big Box Study). That difference adds up quickly, with each dollar potentially circulating multiple times within the local economy (AMIBA).
That ripple effect has real consequences. Local businesses generate more economic activity per square foot than big box retailers and contribute more to local charities (Retailers.com). They also create jobs and strengthen regional economies. In Michigan, shifting just 10% of spending to local retailers could generate $1.5 billion in economic activity and support more than 15,000 jobs (Retailers.com).
Consumer behavior reflects this impact. Around 80% of shoppers say they buy local to support their community, and nearly 78% are willing to spend more to do so (Capital One Shopping).
Beyond the numbers, shopping locally helps preserve the character of a community. It supports small businesses, strengthens local connections, and keeps neighborhoods vibrant.
Every purchase is a choice. Choosing local means investing in your neighbors and helping your community thrive.
Read more:
https://web.mit.edu/course/4/4.293/!Phoenix/Research/Tenant%20Research/bigboxstudies.pdf
https://capitaloneshopping.com/research/shopping-local-statistics
https://www.retailers.com/news/2024/07/economic-study-highlights-impact-of-shopping-local
https://www.experiencemountprospect.org/shop/reasons-to-shop-small-and-shop-local
https://nationalbusiness.org/the-impact-of-small-businesses-on-the-united-states-economy
