Opinion: Local dollars build a stronger Mitchell – Mitchell Republic

To the Editor:

Small businesses in our community serve as the foundation of nearly everything we see, experience, and participate in. We are frequently called upon to support local events, charities, youth sports, fundraisers, and even school activities — contributions that strengthen the fabric of our community.

Our goal is to make our community a better place by providing convenient, local access to the products and services people need. When money is spent locally, it recirculates within Mitchell — turning over multiple times and contributing to economic stability and growth.

In contrast, purchases made online or out of town remove those dollars from our local economy, preventing them from supporting the community we live in. When comparing prices, many people are surprised to learn that local businesses are often competitive with online retailers and big-box stores.

In many cases, the pricing difference is minimal or nonexistent. Beyond pricing, when was the last time a big-box retailer or online store sponsored your child’s activities or contributed to a local charity?

As business owners, we also need to help our employees understand the value of supporting local commerce. Younger generations, accustomed to online shopping, may believe they are making financially responsible choices without realizing the critical partnerships and shared support systems that allow local businesses — and therefore the community — to thrive.

A strong local economy depends on all of us taking care of one another. I think of at least two downtown businesses that would still be open if more consumers had chosen to shop locally rather than online or out of town.  We all want more options for dining, clothing, activities, and businesses to come to town, but if we can’t support what is already here, other businesses won’t even look at Mitchell as an option.

Without consistent support from local customers, our businesses cannot survive — and without thriving local businesses, growth in Mitchell will inevitably decline.

This is a great time to start the practice of supporting local, but try to make a New Year’s resolution to support local businesses all year long and take care of each other to make Mitchell thrive.

Brad Zimmerman, Mitchell

McLeod’s Printing & Office Supply