Shopping small is big

Big store Black Friday strikes again.

It follows the tradition of early openings with the biggest price cuts for the first to arrive uninjured. Some retailers tried to get the jump on other retailers by being open on Thanksgiving Day. These openings may never catch on because the traditional stampedes are missing.

A lot of shoppers view out of town Black Friday as a special outing and adventure. Some people just like contact shopping.

Small communities and small, independent stores have trouble competing with the rush and crowds of Black Friday.

That is why a national movement was started several years ago. This movement is “Small Business Saturday.” It is intended to encourage shoppers to think beyond the malls and big box stores and patronize smaller, local businesses. It is celebrated on the Saturday after Black Friday.

For years, the Gazette has been advocating much the same with its “Shop your hometown first” editorials.

Both these themes are important. They have the same end in mind.

It is to remember and support local businesses.

It is in hometowns where store staff know customers by name. Local stores are the ones that are conveniently available all year, often after hours in emergencies. They are the ones that pay local taxes, hire employees from the immediate area, support important community projects and give generously to schools, churches and community organizations.

The importance of local stores and service providers can be overlooked. They can be taken for granted. Locals often come to expect them to be there regardless. And, local stores are the first to be asked for donations while they may not be the first destination for purchases.

Small businesses in small communities can be vulnerable. Some rural county towns have lost their grocery stores, service stations and the like. People in these towns can recount what that meant for their quality of life.

Shopping “small” can mean big things to rural communities. It is something to remember this Saturday. It is something to remember every day of the year.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher

(Local stores are open on Black Friday, too, with special sales. Patronize them and leave your helmets and shoulder pads at home.)