THREE WAYS SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORTS COMMUNITY

How do you buy art??Consider your local gallery over an online retailer.

Consumers can purchase an item with just a few clicks, a convenience that’s revolutionized the way we do business.

For many online purchasing from re-distributors has made life easier and convenient, and can often trigger our “feel-good” when that package arrives. Online retailers have found great financial success in mining our data, sending targeted ads, and placing their products between the digital fabric our friends and family weave online. This sense of direct targeting makes it easier to buy. Replacing the shopping experience before of crowded malls, an unenthused retail employee at big box stores.

But what have we lost moving away from the brick-and-mortar experience?

REAL brick and mortar – the intimate shopping experience with a small business owner, a local expert.

Let’s take a look at three ways small businesses provide for consumers:

Small businesses make a major economic impact.

More than half of the U.S.’s jobs since 1995 were created by small businesses. And according to the Small Business Administration, since 1990, big businesses eliminated 4 million jobs, while small businesses added 8 million jobs. The more you shop at a local store, the more potential job opportunities you could help them provide.

Small businesses give back (more) to your community.

When you support a local business, you’re also supporting your town, city, and neighborhood. Business pay sales taxes to the city and county the business is located in. Online retailers often avoid these taxes, or don’t qualify.

According to Civic Economics, “on average, 48% of each purchase at local independent businesses is recirculated locally, compared to less than 14% of purchases at chain stores.”

Small businesses provide better customer service.

Small business owners strive to survive and one of the biggest advantages they have over large retailers is the ability to provide more personable, hands-on, and memorable customer service. A small business owner often becomes the best product expert you can find, carefully researching products, and presenting them to a valued small pool of customers.

So take a pause before your next ‘1-click buy’

Do I need this product immediately?

Can I find it locally?

How can this purchase benefit my local economy?

Art Galleries are a small business. Stop in one the next time you’re looking to add a piece to your home. Gallery owners and staff are local art experts who are waiting to help connect you with great art made by real artists, willing to help you with design advice, framing, and maintenance of your growing art collection.

Interested in purchasing art and supporting a community of creators? Reach out to International Art Acquisitions to learn more about sourcing original, high quality works for your space:

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