Save the Storefront
Don’t remember how I came across this site, but if you have a storefront or want more of your taxes to remain in your community, read on. The 3/50 Project was started in 2009 by a woman with a mission to save our local businesses and support our local communities. Her call to action is simple. Stop by your three (3) favorite would-hate-to-lose local independently owned businesses. Spend $50 locally every month. By doing so, you not only keep your favorite stores and restaurants around, but you also bring more money back to your community. The 3/50 Projects states that “For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.”
Have a business? You can not only list yourself for free on her site, but you can download a free flyer and explore other marketing tools including iPhone apps to help teach your community about the impact they can have on their local economy.
As a consumer, why not take a moment to think of those local businesses that you would miss if they were gone. Then, when you can, bypass the big guys and show your support to your local favorites through the dollars you already spend. I know for me if I couldn’t buy my favorite granola from Valli Produce, enjoy a specialty salad or glass of wine from Tuscan Market, or receive an amazing massage at the Lighthouse, I would be bummed. That is why I try to frequent them often. I love the personal attention they give and that I am a valued customer not a marketing statistic. Doesn’t mean you have to go all or nothing by cutting out the big guys, but think about spreading the wealth. And if you can not name three of your favorite independent stores, now might be a good time to look around and see what you may be missing.
Remember that you can make a difference. So often there are many things which affect our lives which we believe we can not affect. Here is your chance to make an impact. So what are your favorite local establishments you would like to support?
