Shop Small Too Big For Just One Day
In 2010 American Express launched Small Business Saturday in an effort to encourage consumers to buy locally and help sustain their economy. The campaign has been a huge success since its inception and we in McDowell are on board to help our residents find local vendors to celebrate Small Business Saturday not only on one day, but all year long!Shopping locally facilitates a more sustainable economy, one that can withstand economic ups and downs. It also allows us to invest in our community in a positive way, giving us a voice (an economic voice) in the future growth of McDowell County.
During this Christmas season--and beyond--make every effort to visit our local stores to meet your needs. The photo to the right is where we want to be and together, we can make that happen.
Our downtown features shops such as Flavor's On Main, Shucks Pearls, Killough's Music & Pawn, Fire & Ice Jewelry, and more. Don't forget favorites including the newly remodeled Rose's, and our own Shoe Sensation or Spencer's Hardware. Gift Certificates make great gifts also and coffee shops, restaurants, adventure outlets, and retail shops are happy to oblige.
If you're still tempted to hit the malls or online, consider the impact every dollar spent locally has on our community. The impact is three-dimensional. First there is the direct impact; helping to operate the business, including inventory, utilities, equipment and payroll. Then there is the indirect impact; this is the money spent by the local businesses at other area businesses. Finally there is the induced impact; this refers to additional consumer spending that happens as employees, business owners, and others spend their income in the local economies. On average, 48% of every dollar spent locally stays in the community compared to less than 14% spent in chain stores. According to records and research conducted by American Express to track the program's success, the numbers for North Carolina are impressive.
- There are 871,376 small businesses in operation in North Carolina (having 500 employees or less)
- Small businesses make up 99.60% of all businesses in the state
- 34,295 jobs were created by small businesses (2014 study)
- 44.80% of all employees in the state work for a small business
You have the power to help our local economy, not just during the holidays, but year-round. So the next time you need to purchase an item or service, check with the Chamber! We'll help you find the right local provider and together we'll help build a better, stronger McDowell!
Now, Go Shop McDowell!
