When you shop from small businesses, everyone wins. From improving your local economy by keeping money in your community to getting better service and higher quality products, why aren’t we all shopping small?
In this article, we’ll go over six ways to help you shop small for the benefit of all.
1. Get a “Shop Small” Mindset
In an era of instant gratification (two-day shipping, anyone?) consider adopting a shop-small mindset from the start.
Next time you need a product or service, ask yourself, “Which small business could provide me with a solution?” Remember that big corporations stand to win when consumers like you prioritize convenience over shopping small.
Start to shift your shopping habits gradually. For example, you can set a goal to switch out one big-box purchase with a small business alternative each month.
2. Explore Your Community
You know that small businesses are the hearts of many BC communities. Supporting small businesses in your neighbourhood helps build community.
Whether you research nearby small businesses with a web search or by going for a walk – find out what’s open. You can use local directories, community boards, and social media groups to discover new small businesses.
3. Go to Local Shopping Events
And there’s no better way to meet the people behind the business than going to a local farmers market or craft fair. From fresh, healthy produce to meaningful handcrafted gifts, you never know what you’ll find at a local shopping event. Add your local farmer’s market to your calendar and try out a new craft fair this holiday season.
4. Plan to Shop Small for the Holidays
If you are shopping for holiday gifts, decorations, and essentials – consider how you can make these purchases at small businesses instead.
It might take more planning, and you may have to shift up your shopping list by a week or two, but it’ll be worth it. Start planning for birthdays, holidays, and special events well in advance, so you have enough time to find a small business solution.
5. Use Online Platforms that Support Small Businesses
If you love to do your shopping online, then there are still plenty of ways you can shop small.
- Shop directly from small businesses’ websites when possible
- On Amazon, use the “small business” filter for your searches
- Follow your favourite small businesses on social media to hear about new products, drops, and deals
6. Shop Small with Friends and Family
Invite your friends and family to shop with you at local stores. You can take a day trip together to visit small businesses nearby and shout out your favourite small businesses on social media.
Start Shopping Small Today
As you start to shift your shopping habits and shop small, you might want to be mindful of the challenges that small businesses face, such as limited inventory, higher prices, and shipping constraints.
Small businesses often offer higher-quality, unique products that can be more cost-effective in the long run. Buying something made in BC is also better for the environment, as it doesn’t need to be packed and shipped long distances.
Are you ready to make shopping small a big part of your life? Then, it’s time to take the next step and explore small businesses near you.
Small Business BC is Here to Help
SBBC is a non-profit resource centre for BC-based small businesses. Whatever your idea of success is, we’re here to provide holistic support and resources at every step of the journey. Check out our range of business webinars, on-demand E-Learning Education, our Talk to an Expert Advisories, or browse our selection of business articles.
