Why you Should Support your Local Mom and Pop Shops
Ever since the economy went downhill in 2008, many small business owners have grown accustomed to the idea that it is impossible to run a successful business. Although many small businesses find it difficult to stay afloat, Mom and Pop type small businesses are among those being hit the hardest. These small, locally owned and operated businesses are being squashed by larger corporations throughout the community that offer less expensive, name brand products. The recent boom in major corporations has left Mom and Pop shops struggling to make ends meet. Let’s discuss the top reasons why you should support your local Mom and Pop shops.
Cheaper is not always better
When major corporations move into town, consumers tend to move away from local small businesses to explore the cheaper alternatives. Even though products offered by the major corporations are cheaper, there is usually a reason why. Mass production should raise a number of red flags for consumers. Mass production could possibly mean that the production process is ethically unsound or potentially risky for one’s health. Frequent problems associated with mass production include:
- Manufacturing might be outsourced to international factories with inhumane working conditions
- Poor quality and artificial ingredients
- Inhumane animal testing
- Harmful manufacturing practices
- Reduced safety guidelines
Small businesses are able to offer higher quality products because the ingredients or components used are usually locally sourced and the product itself receives far more attention than it would in a large factory operation.
Many products offered by large corporations are not actually cheaper
Even though most people believe that large corporations offer cheaper products, that’s not always the case. Many Mom and Pop shops provide deals and discounts in order to stay competitive with their corporate competition. In addition, small business owners are more likely to get to know their clientele and offer them friendly discounts. Some Mom and Pop shops will even offer free products just for being an active part of the community.
Mom and Pop shops actually care about you
There is nothing better than being known and remembered by the business with whom you make frequent purchases. Mom and Pop small business owners get to know their clients and are always available to help when their services are needed. In addition, local businesses can be an excellent resource for your career or social network because they are so well connected to your local community.
Supporting Mom and Pop shops is both economically and morally smart
When the economy forces individuals to outsource services or production to other countries because it is less expensive, or the big banks do not provide loans to small businesses the “American Dream” becomes more of an idea than a reality. Supporting local Mom and Pop shops encourages individuals to allow their own skills to serve their community. Once established and bringing in good money, Mom and Pop shops set the groundwork for an interconnected, thriving national economy.
Mom and Pop shops give your city character
Large corporations offer nothing different from city to city. Mom and Pop small businesses offer community members a unique local space in which to connect with each other and share experiences. They make every city and community original and help to diversify and drive the economy at large.
Alter Impact is owned and operated by a local Orange County couple. We have helped several Mom and Pop shops design and implement a successful marketing strategy. For more information, please contact us today!
