The New Glarus Chamber of Commerce would like to remind everyone of the importance of shopping local this holiday season! We've all heard that shopping locally is important, but why? What does it mean when we keep money in the community?

When money is spent in town, it is more likely to be re-spent locally. Recirculating money in a community increases economic activity, supporting infrastructure like schools and libraries, and raising more money in taxable transactions to fund local government services. Big box retailers are known for avoiding their local tax obligations, while locally owned enterprises generate more tax revenue for communities, with less cost.

Small businesses employ more than 52% of the country's employees and create 2 out of 3 new jobs. Locally owned businesses employ more people per unit of sales, and studies show that during economic downtowns, they retain more of their employees than big-box retailers. Locally owned businesses are also linked to higher income growth and lower levels of poverty within a community. By buying local, you help create jobs for your friends and neighbors, contribute to improved public infrastructure, and invest in New Glarus financially and socially.

Local businesses are also what keeps our community unique. No other place has the special mix of businesses that we do, and they all add to the flavor of New Glarus that makes our village one of a kind. Small businesses are also invested in the wellbeing of their communities; one Michigan State University study showed that, on average, 91% of locally owned businesses donate time and/or money to their community via schools, nonprofits, and community groups.

You can shop at local businesses in-person, over the phone, or often online. The holiday shopping season kicked off locally the weekend of November 11th with Holiday Open Houses at local stores. Not sure what to get? The New Glarus Chamber of Commerce offers Chamber Bucks, gift certificates that can be used at any of the 100+ Chamber businesses in the Village. Get them at the Chamber Depot at 418 Railroad Street, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, or online at swisstown.com/store.

Shopping local makes a difference. This holiday season, we encourage all of you to purchase as many gifts locally as possible!