In a culture saturated with options for shopping, and products for every need imaginable, it can feel daunting to know where to go to not only find the best deal, but make the most impact with our spending dollars. While there are large corporations that seem more popular, shopping locally makes a massive impact on the local economy.
1. Personal impact
When purchasing from large box stores or online retailers, very little of that money is used to pay the employees their living wages. When you shop from local businesses, that money directly funnels back to the small business owners, allowing them to pay their bills and put food on their tables. You're making a direct impact on someone's life as well as stimulating the local economy. Local independent shops give communities flavor and unique character.
2. Personal connection
Shopping locally not only allows you to help make an impact in someone's personal life through their business, but also to s a way to connect with the individuals behind those businesses. In a digital world where everything is ordered online and delivered to your door, it's even more precious now to step inside someone's business and connect with others through your shopping experience. Even when you purchase from a small business online, you might find a handwritten note enclosed, or a bonus gift that touches your heart.
3. Product knowledge
When shopping from local retailers, there's an increased opportunity to know exactly where your products came from, what they're made from, and the impact your purchase makes on those who made it. Here at Redemption Market, we sell a wide variety of products made by survivors of human trafficking, and every purchase allows more and more individuals to escape modern day slavery and allows them to create a better life for themselves and those in their communities.
4. More unique options
While the market is heavily saturated with mass-produced items that wear down easily and hold little character, shopping from local businesses allows you to curate items that hold individuality. Whether you're shopping for yourself or purchasing a gift from a loved one, your options for something unique and unseen are bound to improve by shopping small.
5. Better sourcing
Small, local businesses have the benefit of being able to care more about the sustainability of their business and their products, and will be on the lookout for ways to improve their social and environmental impact while still keeping costs reasonable. There is often a focus on decreasing the carbon footprint of a product while also strengthening the integrity of the supply chain. It's much easier for a small business to implement green practices like reducing energy consumption or starting a recycling program, than for large corporations who often are held back by corporate red tape.
6. Better service
Finally, most small businesses are deeply grateful to have you stop by, and are honestly excited to find ways to help improve your experience. Many online small businesses will include personal notes, extra gifts, and discounts to use for your next purchase, simply to show their gratitude for your support!
Come visit Redemption Market at one of our THREE locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale, where we provide a variety of items that are crafted by hand and made with love by survivors of human trafficking. You get to make a difference in so many lives by choosing to shop local! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to learn about new products we're launching and to hear more about the organizations we're partnering with to fight for freedom!