Editorial: Buy Local

The following is an editorial from FOX6 WBRC-TV General Manager Lou Kirchen, first aired on Tuesday, December 7, 2010:

As you put together your gift-giving list this year, please consider buying locally.  By supporting locally-owned businesses you can "pay it forward", keeping money in the local economy…keeping the doors of local business, open.  Recent studies across the country show that, for every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, $45 stays in the local economy, creating jobs and expanding the community's tax base.  Those businesses employ an array of supporting services in their communities...construction contractors, architects, designers, and cabinet makers.  They use local accountants, insurance brokers, attorneys…you get the idea.  They employ our families and our friends.

Local businesses create a sense of place for a community, but they can only survive if they are supported.  Local owners, who typically invest much of their life savings into their businesses, have a vested interest in the long-term economic health of our community.  Many are involved with local charities, serving on their boards…all in the name of building a better, stronger community for those who live here.  Buying on-line has become a convenient way for many of us to shop.  It makes sense for some things.  But this year, please don't forget your local merchant.  Please buy local.

If you would like to respond to this editorial, email editorials@gowbrc.com, write

Editorials
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