Local Businesses Worth Supporting

Every city, big or small, has hole-in-the-wall locations that only the residents know about. Some of the best-kept secrets in town are oftentimes the Mom and Pop businesses. Check out what’s available nearby and look beyond the brand name, big-box stores. It’s surprising just how many small businesses actually hide in plain sight! Not sure where to begin? Here are some of the best local businesses to check out:

Grocery Stores

Rather than give money to already booming corporations, spend locally. Whether it’s the farm-fresh produce stands, the rotisserie chickens in their hot chicken warmer, or the fact that the cashier remembers every customer’s name, there is a certain charm about family-owned grocery stores. Patronizing one doesn’t just keep money flowing in the community, it helps a family’s dream stay alive.

Restaurants and Bars

Instead of going to the commercial Italian place in the next city for dinner, switch things up and go to one of the restaurants or bars in town. The change in atmosphere can be dramatic: wait staff are usually more personable, the menu is more likely to contain fresher varieties, and every scuff and scratch in the scrubbed plank counters tells a story. Bartenders have some pretty fantastic stories themselves! Small bars and pubs often have a signature cocktail or brew, so be sure to sample. Before long the place will feel like home.

Gas Stations and Convenience Stores

It might cost a few cents more to fill up the tank at a local gas station, but the smiling faces of the owners are worth it. Developing a relationship with neighbors builds good karma in the community. Generally owners of these kinds of businesses know a thing or two about cars, so if trouble arises, it’s more likely that someone inside will be willing to take a look.

Antique or Knick Knack Shops

The small details like the tinkling bell and the shout of “Welcome, hon!” are what keep this kind of shop alive. The clerk, cashier, and owner are oftentimes all the same person, so these kinds of places tend to feel welcoming and inviting. With fun merchandise and kitschy antiques to browse through, it’s easy to lose track of time in one of these quirky little stores.

There are many good reasons to shop locally, but the best reason of all? Community support. Shopping and eating locally is good for store owners and patrons alike and keeps positivity and good juju flowing.