Supporting small business development in your area provides many benefits for you and the community. In particular, shopping local boosts the economy. The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce has explained how this works below. The next time you have a choice between a big box chain or a local, family-owned business in Florissant, MO, they suggest choosing the latter.

The Impact of Small Business Development on the Local Economy

How They’re Connected

There are a few ways choosing to spend your money at local businesses will help the area’s economy. First, you keep the money flowing within the community. Big box stores send their profits elsewhere, such as paying corporate salaries in a large city across the nation. A family-owned establishment will instead spend their earnings at other local businesses or on their taxes, which, in turn, enriches the whole community. A thriving local business will also create more jobs, reducing the unemployment rate in your area and often offering better wages and benefits packages.

What to Do

The best way to support local businesses and the area’s economy is to make the right choices when you do your shopping. Instead of going to a well-known chain for groceries, visit a family-owned grocery store or the local farmer’s market to pick up fresher produce. Buy your clothes at small boutiques, and go out for dinner at the family restaurants in town. If you’re not familiar with which businesses in your area are locally owned, take a day to explore the town and write down the names and locations. You can also contact your chamber of commerce and ask them. They may have maps or lists available.

If you are a local company owner, take advantage of the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce’s resources for small business development. Call them at (314) 831-3500 for information about their services, from networking opportunities to increased exposure. They are here to help you succeed, as they have already done for more than 400 businesses within a 20-mile radius of Florissant.