Why should you care about buying local?a few reasons...--better investmentFor every $100 spent at a local business, $68 stays in the local economy, compared to $43 when spent at a national chain. Local businesses are owned by people who live in your neighborhood, and are therefore invested in the community.better environmentLocal businesses make local purchases, which means less transportation. Meanwhile residents save an average of 26% less automobile miles with local stores and restaurants. Opening stores in town centers means means less congestion but also less urban sprawl.better jobsSmall businesses are the largest employer nationally, creating up to 90% of net new jobs in the U.S. Adding entrepreneurs and skilled workers to a community adds to local prosperity.better characterIt’s local unique businesses that give a town its character. Think about it. When you visit a place anywhere in the country, it’s that local ice-cream spot, that local coffee shop, that local brewery, local pizza shop that you just have to go visit.better serviceA local business always has better customer service. It’s probably one of the few things that a small mom-and-pop can do better than a big box retailer. They know their customers well, and take the time to offer the right product or service for their patron.better communityLocal businesses donate more to local charitable causes, events, and school teams than larger national competitors. Additionally, more local business means a stronger tax base, which better schools and other public services.