Why I Shop at Small, Locally Owned Stores
When faced with a choice between a big chain store and a local store, I tend to shop at a smaller, local store. Big chain stores tend to be impersonal and force small businesses to close, since they have the ability to charge lower prices for their merchandise.
They rarely have enough cashiers to handle the influx of customers.
Many times, they encourage patrons to use the self-checkout option. If I go into a store, I have no desire to check myself out. I want the convenience of having a real live person assisting me when I'm paying for my things. I don't work there, and I don't like the idea of doing the work of a cashier without being compensated for it.
Therefore, I tend to shop at smaller grocery stores. There's a store down the street from me that's very clean and has fresh produce. The staff often have meaningful conversations with me. They go out of their way to provide customer service that the big chain stores do not. It's the human factor that draws me like a magnet! When I'm treated well on a personal level, I remember that better than if I get a great deal on something. Conversation and service tend to rank higher on my reasons to shop at small businesses.
The prices are higher in this particular store, so for some items I DO tend to shop at the big chain places. However, I tend to get my shopping done and leave as quickly as I can. In most cases, I would rather support small businesses whose owners will spend money right here in my local community.
I like to see my neighbors thrive!
