Give the gift of a Stronger Economy

Give the Gift of a Strong Economy

As the Holidays quickly approach, we unconsciously begin to increase the time spent shopping. Everyone looks for sales and attempts to find that last minute Christmas gift. Purchasing your goods locally will stimulate our economy and provide a catalyst for new business and economic development. The impact of purchasing goods locally goes unrealized much of the time. The American Independent Business Alliance reported last year, that if a consumer spends $100 at a locally owned business, $45 of the expenditure stays within the local community’s economy. If that same $100 is spent at a big box national chain store (located locally), it seems only $13 remains in the local economy. That small statistic should make the choice quite clear and underpins the basis for Buy Local or Shop Local efforts throughout our region.  Since 2008, our region has recognized that Shop Local is important and this time of the year more important than ever.

Do not let the mass retailers marketing sway you on price. Many specials can be found at local shops and just because a product is cheap doesn't mean it is a good value- buying outside of our area costs our government sales tax revenues, reduces our local entrepreneurial base and has little to no economic multiplier for our community. Our local businesses may even surprise you, there are many special goods and gifts created right here in Highland County. For instance, hand poured candles, unique bonsai trees, sweet area treats, and one of kind specialists that will build you the ultimate gaming computer that any kid would love as a gift.

Of course there may be items you cannot find in the local marketplace. Well, then I would encourage you to expand the local market to the region, shopping the communities nearest to us first, or even an internet retailer that supports American or independently owned businesses. What is most important is to export the least amount of our money away to other markets and other countries, where we will not benefit from those funds being reinvested. 

While you’re out shopping in our community, you might want to stop in and enjoy a locally owned restaurant. Great homemade food can be found all over Highland County. Try the local faire in Greenfield or Lynchburg, and don’t forget New Market and Hillsboro.  As the New Year approaches most of us are getting our New Years Resolutions ready, I challenge everyone to resolve that they will use their money mindfully by Shopping Local First in 2012.

It isn’t just because your sales tax stays local, it's because our neighbors, friends and families are local- , our money should be local too. So, purchase you Christmas gifts locally, and receive a better economy.

Jeremy Shaffer

Highland County Commissioner

Highland County Press Article Give the Gift of a Stronger Economy