While Seguin Main Street stresses that it is always important to shop with our local, small, independent businesses in downtown and throughout Seguin, it will be even more imperative to do so over the next few weeks. Already coping with the COVID-19 protocols, now most businesses are dealing with losing a week’s worth of revenue as they remained closed during the winter vortex.
“Downtown Seguin was just getting back to seeing pre-COVID visitors in November and then we saw the numbers drop again as cases surged in the community during December and January,” said Kyle Kramm, Seguin Main Street & CVB Director, “Then our businesses get hit again with the severe weather, forcing them to remain closed. And even though they were closed, the cost of operating their business will not drop – rent will still be due, the cost of shipping will be increasing, and several will be addressing damages to their buildings and inventory.”
Here are a few reminders about why shopping at your local, small, independent businesses is important for a healthy and strong Seguin.
5.) Make a larger impact with your money – When shopping with local, independent businesses, more money will stay in Seguin as local merchants support local vendors. For every $100 you spend at locally owned businesses, $68 will stay in the community. What happens when you spend that same $100 at a national chain? Only $43 stays in the community, and even less stays in Seguin when you buy online.
4.) Unique finds -Our downtown stores have unique items that can only be found in Seguin. And if they do not carry an item you are looking for, they will often become a supplier for that item. The uniqueness of our independent merchants also assists in keeping Seguin unique which helps to attract future residents and visitors.
3.) Reduce your Environmental Impact – Shopping local means you are not driving outside of our community, meaning you are using less gas when doing your holiday shopping. Not only does this help the environment, but also saves your gas.
2.) Community Support – Independent businesses are also more likely to make donations to local little league clubs, dance programs, area schools, and other nonprofits. When you shop local you are guaranteed that a portion of your purchase is going back to a local organization.
1.) Support Your Neighbor’s Dream – The most important reason to shop with local independent businesses is that you are supporting your neighbor who will be able to provide for their family all the while ensuring that they experience their dream of owning and running a business.
So before you get in your car to head out of town, please think twice and go support your neighbor, your friend, your community. Thanks for making Seguin an amazing community!