There’s no place like your own backyard for great deals

By Jody Rohlena on November 12, 2012 06:01:00 pm

I’m a big fan of the stores in my town, especially Pure Mountain (unique olive oils and balsamic vinegars—my homemade salad dressings rock thanks to them!) and Bella’s Boutique, a lovely little gift shop owned by a friend. Turns out our readers have their favorite local shops too. For our December story “Shop local and save,” we conducted a national poll to find out where (and why) American women shop locally.

Where do women like to shop? Their favorites, in order, are:
Thrift/consignment stores
Hobby/craft supplie stores
Clothing boutiques
Bookstores
Antique shops

Why do women shop locally? Other than price, these were the top five reasons we heard:
Fun to browse (40 %)
To support small-business owners (34%)
Customer service (29%)
Location (27%)
Unique or specialty products (25%)

And if you’re not shopping independent stores because you’re afraid you’ll pay more, just go for it! Local stores don’t necessarily charge more than big chains, and we have 7 smart tips to help you save:

• Become a regular. When store owners get to know you, you could get perks like discounts,
  special order, even a heads-up when an item you might like comes in.
• Ask for a better price. Unlike managers at many chain stores, local shopkeepers are usually easy to find and willing to deal with you. a local sewing-machine shop offered one of our staffers an extra 15 percent off a floor model.
• Get advice before you buy. Small businesses rely on repeat business, so they want to make sure
  you get exactly what you need.
• Like local businesses on Facebook. It’s a great way to find out about special sales and
  promotions.
• Check in on Foursquare. For example, Latteland in Kansas City, Missouri, gives you 20 percent
  off drinks if you check in.
• Don’t be shy about using coupons. It’s not just big chains that advertise in local newspapers.
  Grab other offers at Valpak’s app and website.
• Remember your local franchises too. Ace Hardware, GNC, Petland, and Radio Shack are
  national brands, but they’re locally owned. And though the local store owners have to pay
  franchise fees, they have more flexibility than nationally owned chanins when it comes to pricing and service.

What’s your favorite Mom & Pop shop?

Jody Rohlena

Posted at 06:01:00 PM in
Gifts | Holidays | Money | Money & Shopping | Saving money | Shopping

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