Here’s a number for you—according to a Gallup poll Americans on average predict spending $885 on gifts this holiday season. Here’s another number to consider—according to Civil Economics: Andersonville Study of Retail Economics – for every $100 you spend at locally owned businesses, $68 will stay in the community. There are plenty of reasons to shop local: 
 

• You create local jobs

• You invest in and reward entrepreneurship

• You build relationships with your neighbors 

• Sales taxes collected from your purchases stay in the community

• You minimize economic impact by consuming less fuel and packaging
 

The money you spend at local businesses has a BIG impact. Everyone benefits—from your neighbors who own and operate local businesses to the municipalities who maintain your roads and fund the school system. Everyone benefits, including you! When you shop local you help create a healthier economy and a happier community. 
 

“For me, shopping local provides me the opportunity to buy unique gifts for my family and friends that live outside of Garrett County,” said Nicole Christian, Chamber President & CEO. “We have some great boutique stores here in our community and I really enjoy how festive our small towns are during the holiday season.”
 

When you shop for gifts this holiday season please consider shopping local (and after you work up an appetite with all that shopping, swing by a restaurant to eat local too). You can visit the Business Directory on visitdeepcreek.com for more information on the wonderful local businesses who comprise our membership.