How to Support Local Businesses in the Wake of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has had many wide-ranging effects, many of them felt most acutely by small business owners. At the height of the pandemic, many businesses were forced to either close completely, curb their hours, or manage with significantly curtailed customer bases. Now, businesses are reopening, but many are still feeling an economic pinch.

If you love and support local businesses, now is the prime time to show it. Indeed, your support may be essential for keeping some of your favorite local shops fully staffed and in business. In this post, we’ll list some of the best things you can do to support local business owners.

The Best Ways to Support Local Businesses

● Shop local whenever you can. We get it… Wal-Mart, Target, and Amazon.com are extremely convenient. But those aren’t the businesses that are hurting. If you need a few small items and you know you can find them at a local shop, consider doing so.

● Check out the online options. Note that, during the pandemic, a number of businesses have really stepped up their e-commerce options. In other words, you can potentially support local businesses just by visiting their website and placing an order. Again, Amazon may seem more convenient… but before you shop from that massive retailer, at least check to see if a local shop can provide what you need.

● Invest in gift cards. One simple way to inject some cash flow into local businesses is to buy gift cards. Give them as presents, or just save them for your own, later use. This is one of the best things you can do to provide small businesses with the liquidity they desperately need right now.

● Tip generously. If you have an opportunity to leave a tip, either online or in-store, consider doing so with as much generosity as you can provide. For many employees, tipping makes a world of difference.

● Advocate and promote. If nothing else, you can provide your favorite local businesses with some free publicity. Advocate for them on social media. Share some of their branded posts and images. Leave positive reviews. Let everyone know about your great experience and encourage them to swing by some of your favorite local shops.

● Be careful with refunds. If you get a dud product, it’s perfectly fine to seek a refund… but in an effort to support local businesses, it can mean a great deal for you to choose store credit over a cash refund. Again, cash is what a lot of businesses need most of all right now, so try to avoid taking it from them!

Support Small Businesses in Your Community

The bottom line? Small businesses are trying to get back on their feet, and your support could be critical. Shop local as much as you can and consider some of these strategies for maximizing your investment in local commerce. Your friendly neighborhood small business owners will appreciate anything and everything you can do to help.