I recently wanted to buy a new pair of a shoes. There is this great locally owned shoe store right around the corner from me, Fritzy Feet in Lowry Town Center. I went in and found the shoes that I liked, but decided not to buy them that day. 
Instead I went online to see if I could get it for a better price… I found the same shoes for about $20 less, but I hesitated…and ultimately, the following week walked into Fritzy Feet and purchased the shoes.
While, I like the idea of buying online and saving time and money, I wonder if the costs of taking the money I spend out of the local economy weigh more than the benefits of saving $20. Also, while I love buying online… it is more of a pain to return things. Finally, talking to a live person can make the buying experience better and being able to try things on lowers the chances of needing to make a return.
The day after I purchased the shoes, as I was walking by Timbuk Toys, another locally owned business, they had a flyer on their storefront for the 3/50 project which highlights the power of purchasing things locally. For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays in the local economy. Spend it online and nothing stays locally.
That is a pretty compelling argument for buying locally as much as you can, especially with the holidays around the corner. I know that sometimes it can be less convenient, but next time you are faced with the choice, remember that spending your money locally helps to create a strong local economy and community.
Happy Shopping!
