BEDFORD — As the holiday shopping season approaches, the Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce is encouraging residents to remember an important message: Shop Local! From finding the perfect Christmas gift to picking up holiday treats, choosing locally owned businesses is one of the simplest ways to give back to the community while checking items off your holiday shopping list.
The message carries an important economic impact. For every $100 spent at a locally owned business, approximately $68 stays in the local community, helping support local jobs, families, businesses and community programs. That means every purchase has the potential to make a difference beyond the transaction itself.
When residents choose to shop at locally owned businesses, their dollars help support the people who live and work in the same community. Local business owners hire employees, purchase supplies and services, pay local taxes and frequently give back through donations, sponsorships, fundraisers and community events.
That investment creates a ripple effect throughout Bedford and Lawrence County. Money spent at one local business can help support another local business, provide employment for area residents and contribute to the organizations and activities that make the community thrive.
Supporting Bedford’s Small Businesses
Bedford is home to a variety of independently owned businesses offering everything from clothing, home décor and specialty gifts to books, handmade products, restaurants, coffee shops and sweet treats.
Small businesses are more than storefronts. They are owned and operated by neighbors who have invested in Bedford and its future. Many are involved in local organizations, support school activities, sponsor community events, and contribute to charitable causes throughout Lawrence County.
Shopping locally also gives customers the opportunity to experience personalized service, discover unique products, and build relationships with the people behind the businesses.
The Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce plays an important role in supporting the local business community by connecting businesses, encouraging economic growth, and promoting opportunities for residents to engage with the businesses that serve the area.
Small Purchases Make a Big Difference
Supporting local businesses doesn’t mean every holiday purchase has to be made locally. Even choosing to purchase a few gifts, gift cards. or everyday items from Bedford businesses can help make a difference.
Residents can support small businesses by:
- Purchasing holiday gifts and gift cards from local retailers.
- Visiting locally owned restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops.
- Shopping with local makers and artisans.
- Choosing local service providers whenever possible.
- Following local businesses on social media and sharing their posts.
- Recommending favorite businesses to friends and family.
- Attending local shopping events and holiday markets.
Even spreading the word about a favorite business can help introduce it to new customers.
Investing in the Community One Purchase at a Time
The holiday season is an especially important time for small businesses as they work to finish the year strong. Every purchase, recommendation, and customer interaction helps contribute to their continued success.
The Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce encourages residents to think about the impact of their shopping decisions this holiday season. When approximately $68 of every $100 spent at a locally owned business stays within the community, shopping local becomes more than a convenient choice. It becomes an investment in the place residents call home.
This holiday season, consider looking closer to home before heading elsewhere for your shopping needs.
When you shop local, you support local families, strengthen Bedford’s economy, and help ensure that the businesses that make this community special can continue serving it for years to come.
Shop small. Shop local. Support Bedford!
