The Bottom Rail by verbal shredwright

SHOP LOCAL?

This always sounds good and is usually well intended. But… yeah there's always a but. Sometimes the definition of "local" is really what's in question. Many BIG corporations or out-of-town investors own the priciest and most coveted real estate in your favorite mountain towns. BIG Brands and franchises are often owned by the wealthiest companies and people who often extract their profits from the community. But… they have the address and location. This might not be exactly what most people think of when they say "shop local".

Originally, ski towns and resort communities gained their character and charm from the year-round locals. The residents who lived and worked to make it a community not just a tourist trap or truck stop. These are people who had regular jobs and came together to do even more during the winters to accommodate the growing number of winter sports enthusiasts. They earn their money and invest their money back into the local community. This is where the concept of "shopping local" came from. But… yeah, remember there's always a but. But… not every "local" business is the same.

In case you missed it things have gotten a little bit more expensive at and around your favorite mountain resorts over the years. Some of the longtime locals have profited almost as much as the resort companies relatively speaking. So today when you support "local" businesses often you are simply helping the rich get richer, and not helping support today's local artists and entrepreneurs. Today "shop local" is found online and at local out door markets… real local businesses cannot afford over-priced brick and mortar retail locations. Take a minute to find them because these are real families with 2, 3 or more jobs already, and who really make things go in your favorite mountain town and resorts. They don't do it all for money, but… remember there's always a but. But, because they love the mountain life and sharing it with others.

Next time you hear about support "local" business or a "shop local" promotion in your favorite mountain towns or villages remember most of the real locals cannot afford to be on main street or in the village. Businesses with those prime locations in today's market place are doing just fine and are often owned and operated by BIG companies, wealthy out-of-towners or part-time residents. If you are looking to "shop local" or support the genuine local art, music and entrepreneurs then the best place to start is at street and farmers markets first. Then get online or out of the resort to the smaller communities surrounding where the real locals live.

Most folks would agree the whole concept of "shopping local" is to help support local business and the local community. Local owned and operated businesses make and spend money in the community. Local businesses are not loss leaders or closed during shoulder seasons. Today's small businesses offer opportunities for individuals to showcase their skills and talents when most are not able to demonstrate since they are under-employed by other businesses and big corporations. But… remember there's always a but. But, those jobs do not pay all their bills. 

So if you want to really "shop local" and help support real locals who live and work in the community make sure you ask before you just help the rich get richer. Remember when you support real locals they support other locals and their businesses too. Remember everybody wants more… even those who already have more than enough! So, how do you shop local?