Get Involved as a Consumer

Consumers drive our local economies,
so a consumers decision is able to make
a huge positive impact on local businesses.

Here are some things you can do as a consumer:

• Think and buy Local First. When you think of buying a product or service, check first to see whether there is a locally owned business that might meet your needs. From lawn mowers to lattes, there’s nearly always a local option.

• Lend your voice and your vote to public officials who make policy that is fair to all businesses. Tell your elected officials that all businesses — big, small, local, national, or international—should compete on a level playing field in Michigan.

• Spread the word about Local First Initiatives!

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Top 10 Reasons with more detail! : )

• Significantly More Money Re-Circulates in Wyandotte & South East Michigan
  When  you purchase at locally owned businesses rather than non-local businesses, more money is kept in the community because local businesses frequently purchase from other local businesses. Purchasing local goods and services helps grow area businesses as well as the South East Michigan tax base.

• Unique Businesses Create Character and Prosperity
  The unique character of West Michigan is what brought us here and keeps us here.
  Our tourism businesses also benefit.

• Environmental Impact is Reduced
  Local businesses make more local purchases and require less transportation.
  They are usually located in the town or city center rather than the outskirts.
  This reduces urban sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

• Most New Jobs are Provided by Locally Owned Businesses
  Small, locally owned businesses are the largest employers in the United States.

• Nonprofits Receive Greater Support
  Local business owners donate more to local charities than non-local owners.

• Customer Service is Better
  Local businesses often hire people with more specific product or service expertise.

• Local Business Owners Invest in Community
  Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave,
  and are more invested in the city's future.

• Public Benefits Far Outweigh Public Costs
  Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure and more efficiently utilize public services relative to chain stores.

• Competition and Diversity Leads to More, and Better Choice
  A marketplace of several small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term.

• Investment in Wyandotte & South East Michigan is Encouraged
  A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.