Small Business Love | News & Notes (Hello 2020!)

I'm passionate about our independent retailers; dedicated to speaking out and perhaps playing a small role in putting the focus back on locally-owned and operated companies; a fan of businesses with flavor and history. Articles which highlight the success of the people who pour their heart and soul into a dream, along with sometimes, the struggles and sadness, come across news sites and social media with increasing frequency and I feel almost a responsibility to share and pass them along.

From time to time, I gather up the best stories and inspiration to pass on to you in a digest format. Most are from this month and a couple are oldies but goodies worth reposting. I hope you find a piece which interests you, perhaps starts a conversation or encourages a renewed focus on the independently-owned businesses where you live. I invite you to share with friends and fellow entrepreneurs!

• Wise choices and good decisions are just part of being an ethical consumer: "Drop Big Retailers, Buy Local Instead"

• “Of course, it would be easier for me to go to market and purchase large quantities of mass-produced items. But that is not what is in my heart and how I want to earn my living. The way I stock my store now takes a considerable amount of time and mental energy, but I need to be a part of something that is larger than myself. I need to not lose focus.” Create The Kind of Place You'd Want To Visit

• The benefits of a thriving community filled with distinct flavors of people and places to go; yes, that is definitely worth saving! “More Reasons to Shop, Eat, Read Local”

• Feedback and thoughts from a local store owner on issues facing area independents such as taxes, lease rates, wages and benefits. “Guest Commentary: Taxes, Fees and Wages Are Killing Denver’s Small Businesses”

• Lessons for Retailers from the Rebirth of Indie Bookstores “After falling for decades, in 2009 the number of independent bookstores started to rise, climbing 49 percent in the next decade to nearly 2,500 stores nationwide.”

• In a landscape where profit margins are slim and takeout and delivery from chain eateries are on the rise, independent restaurants need your support. "How to Support Local Restaurants You Love (And Why it Matters)"


• Insurance is ESSENTIAL for all aspects of your business (my personal opinion, however this article makes a good point!) Please, get it today. "When Buildings but Not Inventory Are Insured"

• Let's not allow ourselves to be "too busy" to make one extra stop at the hardware store or pet food shop or grocery. Let us put aside the tendency to cram everything into one shopping cart in a single location so we can proclaim how much time was saved. "Waiting to Spend Where You Live?"

• Well-defined, organized and sustained public education campaigns have proven their ability to shift local culture and spending. "The Keys to Effective Buy Local Campaigns" via AMIBA

• More people are beginning to embrace things that are made by hand in small quantities: "Why Handmade Matters"

• Doesn't your sweetheart deserve the very best? Support Local Businesses for Valentine's Day


• Shop Local…Shop Early When Ordering Flowers This Valentine’s Day! Where should consumers go to get their flowers for love? Locally, of course ~ Support your independent flower artist!

• "Small Business Love for Valentine's Day" Valentine's Day is an important time of the year for small business owners. Choosing to spend with the independents is an important decision - one which either takes money away from your community - or strengthens it. Your efforts to visit and support them really makes a difference!

Live Local USA |"A Voice for Small Business"

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