I recently became aware of the 3/50 project, an effort to "save the brick and mortars our nation is built on". This is an effort to support independent retailers and encourage consumers to shop at locally-owned businesses.
Three: The project encourages consumers to think about the three independently owned businesses they would miss if they were gone. Then Fifty: An encouragement to spend $50/month in these establishments.
The stats they quote: for every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community. For every $100 spent at a national chain, only $43 stays in the community. For every $100 spent on-line, none is directed back to the local economy.
Independently owned might mean bookstores, florists, restaurants, movie theatres, cleaners, gift shops, or hair salons. To help you find these places, the 3/50 project has developed a free LookLocal application that you can download from the App Store.
When I think about it, there are many independent businesses that I would miss if they were gone. All of our "Dive Lunches" (#105 9-14-12) take place at local eateries. Scratch cupcakes (#381 6-17-13) and Betty Jane's ice cream (#348 5-15-13) both qualify. Fincel's sweet corn (#25 6-26-12). Dubuque Mining Company (#204 12-22-12). My favorite local theatre where I see 100% of my movies.
I'll bet that if you think about it, you could come up with a list of three favorites too. Even if you make it the 3/25 project and spend less than $50 each month, we'd all be better off if the places that make our towns unique were thriving. Try to do your part!
-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com
@leadershipdots
leadershipdots@gmail.com
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