Shopping local is important to the consumer in regards to what happens to your dollar after your spend it.
Your dollars and sales taxes go towards support of a lot of the municipalities and services both at the city and county level – and you don’t get that when you shop online. Several newer small businesses popping up locally has been a developing trend according to Ken Springer – President of the Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development. “For one, it’s going to give you a much more diverse business base – contrary to other communities that may have only one or two large employers where essentially all of your eggs are in one basket,” Springer said. “I think it’s a healthy thing. I think it’s a great way to show a local economy has diversity.” Special sales for Small Business Saturday is nationwide – but is embraced locally by the Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce – with area businesses participating at different levels. Springer tells WGIL is a way for consumers locally to take one day – and recognize that their dollars have a life after the point they leave your wallet. Small Business Saturday is more of a movement to make the average consumer aware of the impact of their spending. Springer says in his mind, it shouldn’t matter whether it’s the traditional “mom and pop” store or a local franchised store – both are taking a risk, both are entrepreneurs, and both are providing local jobs.
