Reasons to be Thankful for Local Businesses

By Craig Gocken

This is the season for thankfulness.  It is the time of year that we consider all that we have to be thankful for.  For many of us, the list is long.  In the cold weather, we are thankful that we have homes to keep us warm.  As we attend Thanksgiving feasts, we are reminded to be thankful for the bounteous supply of food we enjoy.  And, of course, at the holidays, we are especially thankful for our family and friends.  Have you ever thought about being thankful for the local businesses that serve us every day in our communities?  Here are three reasons why we should all be thankful for local businesses in our area.

1. Local businesses know their customers and what they need.

Communities have their own personalities and their own distinctive needs.  Local business owners live and work within their communities so they understand their needs.  In addition, local businesses employ community members who are usually friendly and helpful.  After all, they are the same people you see walking down the street, cheering at the high school football game, or singing in church.  In other words, local businesses are responsive and helpful because they are run by your friends and neighbors.

2. Local businesses put more money back into the local economy.

Money that is spent at area businesses can have a strengthening effect on the local economy.  All businesses have expenses, many of which are spent with other businesses in the community.  Supplies, utilities, and transportation are just a few of the costs for businesses.  When these are purchased locally, more money is injected into the local economy.  Businesses also employ people within the community, who spend their earnings at other local businesses.  In short, local businesses keep the local economy humming.

3. Local businesses are close-by when you need them.

Perhaps the most obvious reason to be thankful for local businesses is that they’re so…local!  Have you ever thought about what you would do if you had to go to another town for the things that you need?  Whether groceries, gas, or other necessities, it is so convenient to have access to the essentials (and even some non-essentials) of life.  Without so many local businesses providing for all our daily requirements, life would be much more complicated.

Businesses right here in our communities fill many needs.  And they do it day after day, year after year.  At Federated Bank, we are thankful for local businesses too and strive to provide them with flexible, reliable services.  If you own a small business and would like to know how we could help you serve your customers, visit your local branch anytime to talk with us about your needs.