This year, small and local businesses are struggling.
Massively.
In case you haven’t seen the numbers, Dan Price outlines them well:
Amazon: profit up 100%
Walmart: profit up 80%
Target: profit up 80%
Lowe’s: profit up 74%
Microsoft, Facebook, Apple, Google: stock at record high
Small businesses: 21% closed; revenue for rest down 30%.
The numbers are staggering. But then you take a look at the actual wealth increase and it’s even more mind numbing.
Wealth increase in the pandemic for founder/CEOs of
Amazon: $91 billion
Walmart: $38B
Google: $37B
Microsoft: $33B
Facebook: $28B
Nike: $8B
Apple: $8B
Small businesses: collectively lost over $200 billion
Now before you go any further, I want to make sure you understand something.
I, too, shop at Amazon and Target. I, too, use Facebook, Google, and Apple products.
There’s nothing wrong with utilizing companies like this, especially if you are trying to support your family and need to find cheap options for purchasing the basics (if you are a parent, those Amazon subscriptions truly come in handy).
What I’m saying is this.
You have a choice of where to spend your money when you buy gifts this year for the holidays.
What if, instead of buying a Target brand t-shirt for your friend, you buy a custom one from a small business on Etsy for a few more dollars?
Instead of purchasing books from Amazon, why not support your local bookstore or online new/used bookstore and buy the same book (sometimes for even cheaper)?
I know the temptation is there to buy from these brands simply because they are cheap, and there is often free delivery.
But they have the luxury of selling cheap and delivering free because they are wealthy.
If you’re a small business, there are start-up costs, transaction fees, rent for opening a brick and mortar shop, and so much more.
The large, name brand companies, simply don’t have these sorts of costs.
And frankly, while my bank account appreciates being able to buy something cheap from Amazon, I find much more satisfaction when someone goes out of their way to send me something from a small business. An item that I know is handmade and was carefully crafted, rather than something made in bulk by a machine.
So, I’ll get off my soapbox now, but I hope this encourages you to think a little more carefully about why we should all shop small businesses this year.
I realize many of us are much more strapped for cash than ever before. But, if that’s not you, please, please, please, shop small businesses.
I don’t know about you, but I want small and local businesses around for a long time! Let’s help them stay afloat together.
A few small businesses to support:
Alyssa Guerrero
Alyssa is an artist and designer of prints and original art. For the holiday season, be sure to check out her limited edition ornaments!
Sparrow Stitchings
Emily is the creator of goods for adventurous children (and adorable, zero-waste stuffed animals). Her goods make a wonderful gift for any little ones in your life.
Honeyburrow
Kristen designs and sews one-of-a-kind bonnets and bows for little ones. She also makes incredible artwatches and more!
Make and Do Crew
Jess is the designer of beautiful and modern crochet patterns. A perfect option for your creative friend or family member!
Xoxo, Darlin
Dyllan’s gorgeous handmade boutique earrings are the perfect gift for a friend, family member, or co-worker.
Camino Goods
Christina is the owner of an online marketplace for home decor, dried floral, and curated vintage items. She also owns Bellevue Floral Co if you’re interested in purchasing stunning floral arrangements.
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