The last year has been a challenging one for us all. We have been forced to change the way we live our lives in almost every way. Everything from how we go to work, spend our weekends, interact with our loved ones and shop has been forced to completely change. While we have managed to adapt relatively well (thank you Zoom!) and many businesses have truly excelled, it has been extremely tough on small businesses. A recent report by Quickbooks and YouGov found that two-thirds of small businesses were worried about their business surviving through the pandemic. This is why it is so important that as consumers, we think consciously about where we shop. Here are some reasons that it is more important now than ever to support small businesses.

We can make someone’s dreams come true

When we buy small, we are making a really big difference to someone’s life. The money we spend is not lining the pocket of a large corporate boss who already has more cash than they can spend, but someone working all hours of the clock to fulfil their passion. Each sale that small business makes will mean the world to them and you know you are doing good by helping to support them and make their dream come true. 

We can stumble across some amazing and innovative products 

By shopping small businesses you are also delving into the world of creativity. Unlike a large corporation that is often governed by many steps in decision making, creatives with a small business can turn their innovative dreams into a reality. Whether you stumble across a beautiful site selling wool slippers, or someone making their own beautiful dried flower bouquets on Etsy, you will be surprised at just what you might find.

They can help to pump money back into the local community

With a small business, your money goes directly to them and they are then likely to spend this in their local community. This means that instead of your money going to a headquarters thousands of miles away and then to the pocket of a multi-millionaire before slowly trickling down the corporate ladder, it is making a difference. Due to the pandemic, our economy is not in the best position at the moment, so it is always great to try and help out where you can.

You know that real care has gone into their products

A small business is one that is built out of love, passion and determination. You know that each product created by a small business is one that has been carefully thought about. Larger conglomerates often have their eye on how much money their products can make and have a large supply chain that takes any personalisation out of the process. 

These are just a few reasons that it is so important to support small businesses. Next time you shop, before you head straight to Amazon or a similar, large, faceless corporation, try and shop local. Check out sites such as Etsy or Not On The High Street and see what you can find on there.