Support Small Businesses or They Might be Gone

There is no question that the past few years have been difficult for our country, but especially for small independent businesses. No one was prepared for the economic downturn and housing crises that started in 2007. Things were booming before that, and we all thought it would last forever. We all know what happened and I do not want to rehash that here. The point I do want to make is that we should all make a concerted effort to help keep these businesses around.  

Why is this important? Small businesses and the entrepreneurial spirit are the life-blood of our country; their creativity can energize a community, they are job-creators, and are usually much more knowledgeable in their area of expertise. You may pay slightly more but the quality and service will far make up for that.  

We have all seen many of our favorite small restaurants and shops not survive the past few years. My concern is that if this trend continues, our only choices will be the big box, and the very large discount chain that strives to corner the market on selling toys, electronics, groceries and even gas. I like a bargain just as much as the next person, but we have to realize what this path is doing to our country.  

These discount chains go to great lengths to keep prices at rock bottom, mainly by importing from other countries. That may sound like a good thing for their consumers, but our manufacturing facilities are closing, our small mom and pop independent retailers are closing, and jobs are being lost.  This cycle has to end or there will be very few places to shop.  

Saturday, Nov. 26, is Small Business Saturday.  Go out and support your local small businesses, and make a difference.