The Importance of Shopping Locally Owned This Holiday Season

One of the most frequent complaints I hear from Palos area residents is the number of empty storefronts in their town. In actuality the Palos area is doing slightly better than most in keeping the business occupancy rate up.

Yet the fact remains that in today's economy running a successful retail small business is hard work. Shopping malls filled with chain stores and big box retailers with their cheaply made products and cheaper prices have in many ways taken over the retail game. 

Locally owned operations face stiff competition. Yet they offer something that many larger stores can't. Unique goods sold by people who make customer service  their priority. Over the past year we have run a that introduced our readers to local shop owners and their businesses.

I was always struck by how much pride these shop keepers take in their work and in their town. They are very much a part of the community and act in accordance. They are the ones donating money to , or providing gifts for charity auctions. Their storefronts are what gives your town its identity.

This holiday season I have a challenge for you. Shop local as much as you can. While you might have to head west to that land of shopping malls and big box retailers for some items on your list, many more unique gifts can be found right here in town.

I am making it my goal this year to do all my Christmas shopping at local stores. There are plenty of options in Palos and now is the perfect opportunity to stop in to shops you have always meant to visit. Browse through Patch's Places Directory for a comprehensive look at all the stores in town. If you have a great experience leave them a review. 

The  Christmas Shoppe features gifts handmade by local artists and craftspeople. It's a great option for one-of-a-kind gifts. Gift certificates from area restaurants, salons, spas and gyms are also a great choice. 

Over the course of the next few weeks we will be running a series of posts that will shine the light on local shopping options. Let us know in the comments section where you like to shop and what local purchases you made this holiday season.