When I Shop Local in Redfield, Does It Really Make a Difference?

It’s hard to believe that the countdown to Christmas has begun!

And over the next few weeks, we’ll all probably hear the words “shop local” at least a dozen times.

It’s an idea most folks love. A recent article from Forbes noted that generationally, Boomers (80%) and Gen X (77%) were the most intentional when it comes to buying from small businesses, followed closely with Millennials (70%) and Gen Z (65%).

But when you shop local, does it really make a difference in Redfield?

Small Businesses Drive Growth in Redfield

Did you know that for every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, a whopping $73 remains in that community?

Compare that to the $43 that remains when purchasing from a corporate chain.

When multiplied over and over, that $30 difference has a massive impact, especially in rural areas like ours.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, small businesses are truly the backbone of South Dakota’s economy, making up 98.9% of all businesses and employing 216,000 people. That’s over 58% of the state’s entire workforce!

Each dollar spent at a small business supports our amazing community with increased tax revenue, which helps improve our services and infrastructure while also providing local jobs for local people. The result? A higher standard of living that everyone in Redfield can enjoy.

But it also has a deeper impact.

Almost every business started out as a small, local one. By supporting our talented entrepreneurs during the gift giving season (and beyond), you’re becoming a part of their success story. 

Redfield Businesses Support Our Community

Buying locally functions as a two way street with everyone benefitting.

We all know the importance of consumers supporting small businesses, but we often forget that those small businesses support us, too.

It’s been noted that independent locally-owned businesses recirculate 48% of their revenue locally compared to 13% by chain businesses.

With such a positive impact on the local economy and job seekers, it’s easy to see why doing our part to keep these places in business is so important.

Dollar for dollar, when you shop local in Redfield, you also support economic growth, job creation, and support one-of-a-kind restaurants and shops that add a vibrant character to the community.