Shop Mom and Pop
Does fresh produce, grown and harvested from the farm down the road, taste better than produce purchased from a large chain grocery store? I think so, and that’s why I only buy produce from my local Mom and Pop shop. Because my daughter’s a huge strawberry fan, we’re anxiously waiting for our favorite pick-your-own berries farm to open. I refuse to buy berries from the big chain grocery store in town because they just don’t taste as fresh or juicy as the local berries.
But taste isn’t the only reason I shop from small, local stores. I know that my purchases enable the shop owner to support his family and the families of his employees. They are my neighbors, and I want them to be successful. There’s nothing wrong with a chain store owner supporting his family. I have a choice, and I’d rather support someone in my community instead of someone who lives in another state.
The other week, my growing son needed new clothes. Instead of heading to the mall, I drove downtown. We started our quest in the consignment shop. Every season, I drop off a bag of quality clothing, and the owner sells it for me. She takes a portion of the profit and gives me the rest. With the money I had on credit, I purchased two outfits and a pair of shoes for my son.
As the consignment store owner completed my transaction, she thanked me for shopping in her store. She reminded me that as I buy and sell from her, I support the local economy. Like every shop owner, she must pay taxes on her sales. This money provides financial revenue for our local police and fire departments, public library and schools. Not only does she make a living because I buy from her, but our community receives valuable services that enrich the citizens and keep them safe.
In addition to supporting the local economy and infrastructure, my family and I receive friendship when we support locally owned Mom and Pop shops. As my hair stylist friend works her magic on my hair, we chat. That hour in her salon makes me feel like a million bucks because I look great on the outside and feel great on the inside. Whenever I need my computer repaired or visit the chiropractor, I find a friendly face and cheerful conversation. I rely on my local shops for the supplies and services I need and for friendship.
I also know I’ll find great customer service when I shop Mom and Pop. The local hardware store is a great example of exceptional customer service. Customer service reps stroll the aisles looking for customers in need. At big box stores, I might be greeted with a smile, but I rarely find assistance, the aisles are cluttered and the shelves are messy. Small store owners and employees care about their customers and take pride in the shop’s appearance.
Like these stores value me as a customer, I value my neighbors who choose to hire my family’s auto body shop. There’s a lot of competition for business, and we appreciate that our neighbors help us feed our family instead of buying from a national chain. In appreciation, we offer services a large shop can’t offer. We open the shop on weekends for emergency work or accept trades for payment in lieu of money. This personalized service keeps our customers returning to us and illustrates the appeal of Mom and Pop shopping experience.
As you can see, shopping from Mom and Pop stores benefits the entire community. The infrastructure relies on locals supporting small town stores. As we build relationships and support each other, we work together to make a difference and create a better living environment and future for your families and our children. For me, that’s the best reason to shop Mom and Pop!
