First, is customer service.  Local businesses are vastly invested in their communities professionally and personally.  Each project is important because their reputations are known by quality and service.  The response to concerns and problems tend to be taken care of with less hassle to the consumer.  It has been proven that small local businesses give back to their communities more than large businesses.  For instance, our small local family business donates every year to: community schools, local Relay for Life, local boy scouts, community little league and more.  The community needs the local business support just as much as the businesses need the community support.  Both businesses and residents are investing in the future of the community.

 Secondly, taxes and unemployment become significant factors not only for the local businesses, but also the residents in the community.  It is known that small local businesses are the largest employer nationally.  This helps stimulate our local economy as well as help families in our community.    

 There may be some frustrations with buying local, such as, paying a little more or dealing with hours, which may not be as convenient, however looking at the large picture, you are adding value to your community.  By supporting our local economy it only makes our community more sustainable and valuable to work, live and play in.

 Ashley Burpeau McElreath
West End Cabinets/West End Industries