Recycle Your Income

Recycle Your Income

By Susan Odum
Extension Educator
Community & Economic Development
University of Illinois Extension

In addition to recycling newspapers, aluminum cans, and plastic bottles, why not recycle your income by buying local whenever possible? When you make a commitment to buy local, you are contributing to the recycling of monies in the local economy, which in turn will lead to growth in the local economy. 
  
The benefits of buying local are compelling and perhaps best outlined by evaluating the benefits of locally owned businesses. 
  • Locally owned businesses typically recycle a much larger share of their revenue back into the local economy; therefore, the more money you spend locally, the more those dollars stay in your community. 
  • Local business owners tend to bank locally, dine locally, hire local service providers and advertise in the local media. 
  • Local businesses are typically the major supporters of local charities, athletic programs, fundraisers and school activities. 
  • Local businesses are typically owned and/or managed by people who live in the community. 
  • Local businesses generally employ individuals who also live within the community.
  • Because local business owners generally live in their communities, they have a vested interest in the community’s future and are less likely to leave. 
  • Local business owner’s children and grandchildren often attend the local schools. 
  • Local business owners often attend local churches, school programs and community events. 
  • Local business owners traditionally get to know their neighbors and their customers and are more attuned to what they need and want. 
  • Local businesses traditionally offer superior customer service and take the time to build personal and lasting relationships with their customers. 
  • Local business owners traditionally know a lot about their business and their product lines and are able to help you find what you want.
Local businesses are an integral part of what makes a community a great place to live. When local businesses succeed, competition thrives. A thriving business community supports new business growth and leads to positive change that will make the community both stronger and more sustainable.
Start recycling today – Buy Local!
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