You have an opportunity to affect economic development and make a big difference in the local economy in the next 60 days.
Believe it or not, holiday shopping season is upon us. November and December are huge months for the retail industry. You play an important role in the success of our retail businesses. I realize it is very easy to order from Amazon or some other mega online retail source. But before you do so, please consider what the local shops have to offer.
A wide array of products and specialty items are available in the Cape/Jackson metro area. We have many national retailers and a tremendous mix of local, one-of-a kind shops and boutiques. All of these places are staffed by your friends, neighbors, church members, and community risk takers. These folks would love an opportunity to do business with you. It is so important to give them that opportunity.
You see, when you shop in the local area, you are supporting the jobs and livelihoods of all of these people. And also, very importantly, your sales tax dollars support local governments which provide critical services including roads, police and fire. I’ve often said if you don’t think it’s important to shop locally, try using an online service to respond to a local emergency. Needless to say, you won’t get any response at all. All I’m asking is please consider directing most of your holiday spending to area businesses.
