Shopping ideas for the holidays: Giving Gratitude – Shopping Local

#BeavertonAreaChamberofCommerce

The winter holiday season is one of gratitude, family, gift giving, and community activities.

As you look to do your holiday shopping and activities, please be intentional in how you spend your time and money. For many businesses, this is the busiest time of the year. Revenues earned in November and December carry many small businesses through the slow season from January to March.

Sure, it’s easy to buy stuff online from large retailers. While some of proceeds from these purchases support local jobs, like warehouse and delivery workers, most of the profits go elsewhere.

Shopping local builds community and supports your neighbors and neighborhoods more directly.

Did you know that, according to research, for every $100 spent at a locally owned retail business, $73 remains in the local economy? Shop at a non-locally owned business, and only $43 remains in the local economy.

Civic Economics (civiceconomics.com) estimates that locally owned restaurants keep about 79 percent of revenues in the community, compared to just over 30 percent for chain restaurants.

Keep in mind we have some great local, large organizations and retailers (like Nike and Columbia Sportswear) that alter these figures. Plus, many of the local chain stores are owned locally as franchises (like Grocery Outlet and Chick-fil-A).

The “bottom line” here (dual meaning intended), is to be intentional with your holiday purchases. Know who you are buying from and who you are supporting in the process.

Right here in Beaverton there is an abundance of locally owned businesses where you can find great gifts, great food, and great family entertainment.

Here are some ideas:

Want to find a locally made, unique gift? Visit Westside Artwerks to find treasures from more than 30 local artists and crafters.

Need flowers or plant gifts for that special someone? Be sure to visit Beaverton Florist and Clover + Booch.

Know a guitar player you want to wow? Visit the experts at Five Star Guitars.

Need some sweet treats for a family gathering or event? Look no further than Dazzle Desserts or Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Friends with furry companions you want to spoil? Visit the new Puppernickel location in downtown Beaverton.

Need some good old-fashioned family fun? Bring the family and friends to KingPins.

Have fun. Be safe. Hope you all have a healthy and happy holiday season.

By Rob Routhieaux, Director of Small Business Support & Development. For more information about how your business can be involved or sponsorship opportunities, email us at info@beaverton.org or call, 503-644-0123.