Think Local, Support Small Business

It feels like we blinked and just like that it is mid-February. For those of us in California (SSS Headquarters), the beginning of February marks the end of “Lockdown 2.0.” We’ve been able to emerge from our respective cocoons and once again enjoy simple luxuries like dining out and getting a professional haircut (but not for Scott, yet!) 

 As we get back out and about, the importance of supporting small businesses and independent retailers continues to hit home. It’s been disheartening to see more and more of our communities’ beloved mom-and-pop shops and eateries closing for good, unable to survive their pandemic losses. So, we are giving a lot of thought to how our industry can give a much-needed boost to small businesses in need of support through a commitment to making thoughtful choices when selecting vendors and suppliers.

Now, more than ever, it is so important to shop local and support the restaurants and small businesses that are still standing. These businesses—and the people who run them—are the heart and soul of our communities, and simply make the places we love better. Yes, we have been just as guilty as everyone when it comes to defaulting to the convenience and one-stop-shop, free delivery ease of the Amazons, Targets, and other “big box” retailers who have been getting even bigger during the pandemic. But as a company, we’ve decided we aren’t going to take the easy route anymore because there are so many amazing independent businesses out there that deserve our patronage. In addition to buying local to keep money circulating in our communities, small changes like ordering directly from a restaurant instead of going through an app can have a positive impact on that business’s bottom line. A New York Times article offering 9 Ways to Support Small Businesses even advised paying full price if you can afford it, rather than seeking discounts at a time when businesses are struggling to stay afloat.

 Looking to the future when we can gather again safely, we hope to see the meetings and events industries demonstrating more “conscious consumption,” be it supporting local artisans or showcasing local culinary talent. As an industry, we can bring even greater economic benefit to the communities we choose to host meetings in and spread the love to the very small businesses that need it.