Tough choices in a tough economy

What kind of business do you want to support when you shop? Perhaps one operated by a friendly face, one that uses less energy and creates less waste, one that supports local causes and helps to keep money circulating in your town? If you care about these things, think local. Local shops can’t always beat the prices at big box stores, but they are competitive and getting better all the time. There are many misconceptions about locally owned businesses versus the big chain stores. One misconception is that big box stores bring more jobs to the area. What is not obvious at first is that the community may realize a deficit of local job opportunities when a big box moves in. As independents are forced to downsize or close up shop, the job losses are spread across a wide range of businesses. Think about it: those big chain stores cannot increase the amount of money that local residents have to spend. The result is that sales gains at the chain stores are met by an equivalent drop in revenue at existing businesses. Without local support, the unique character and charm of Milford and the surrounding area would disappear. Another myth is that big business means more money for the community. The truth is dollars do not remain here, but are exported out to some corporate entity in another town. In addition, these chains generally do not purchase goods locally so the loss is compounded. When a small store or locally owned small business shuts its door, it is no longer going to bank locally, or place ads in the local papers, or utilize area professionals like accountants and lawyers - or purchase from other locally owned businesses like restaurants and supermarkets and hardware stores. Consider a more immediate impact: wasted energy. With fewer stores operating locally, how many more miles will you need to drive for your shopping? Will there be a need for large transportation of goods from out of the area? How much land will be developed (and perhaps abandoned)? And let’s face it: when you step into a locally owned and operated business, you are not a nameless face in the crowd. Your patronage matters and your satisfaction is important. Since it is a personal experience, shop owners know who you are and shop with you in mind. They want you - their customer - to be satisfied. Do you get that kind of personal attention in a mall? Finally, studies have shown that in places where residents support their locally owned businesses, there is more community involvement and lower crime rates. So before you decide to visit a shopping mall or a big chain store, investigate the alternatives. Let us all band together and support local retailers, not just for the upcoming holiday season, but as a vote in favor of retaining the charm, the natural beauty and the uniqueness of Milford and surrounding communities. It is for the very same reasons we live here and what keeps visitors coming back for more. Linda Fields for the Shop Milford campaign