People Buy From People – The Rise of Small Business
As you stroll through your local town, you’ll notice a distinct change in the shopping landscape from what you had perhaps grown used to only just a few years ago. Small, independent businesses are thriving, and it’s not by accident. Small businesses now account for 99.3% of all private sector businesses in the UK according to the Federation of Small Businesses. More and more people, perhaps even you, are choosing to support these local gems over the massive, faceless corporations that once dominated the high street.
The reasons are varied, but they all boil down to a few core principles; People want a personal touch, a unique product, and a sense of community.
Large corporations just can’t provide that kind of intimate shopping experience, no matter how hard they try, or how many bells and whistles they add to their brand. In fact, 70% of UK consumers prefer to buy from small businesses and 50% of UK shoppers are willing to pay more to support them.
- Personalised Service: Small business owners often know their customers personally, ensuring a level of service and attention that large chains simply can’t match. When you walk into a local shop, you’re not just a number. You’re a valued customer whose preferences and quirks are known. This personalised attention can lead to a more satisfying and enjoyable shopping experience.Small business are also often more flexible and responsive to customer feedback. Unlike large corporations, they can quickly adapt and make changes to meet their customers’ needs.
- Unique Products: Local businesses often offer handcrafted, locally-sourced, or unique products that you won’t find in big-box stores. These distinctive items not only add character to your purchases but also support artisans and makers who pour their hearts into their work.When you buy from small businesses, you’re often investing in quality and creativity that larger corporations can’t replicate. These items tell a story, and owning them feels like a connection to the place and the people who created them.
- Community Engagement: Shopping local means investing in your community. These businesses are more likely to support local causes, events, and other small businesses. When you buy from a small business, you are directly contributing to the local economy, helping to create jobs and sustain community growth.
When you choose where to spend your hard-earned money, it’s often the human connection that draws you in. People buy from people because of the trust and authenticity that small businesses offer. When you choose to shop from small businesses, you’re not just purchasing products; you’re investing in relationships, supporting innovation, and enriching your community.
The personal touch, unique offerings, familar faces and local resonance create a shopping experience that large corporations simply can’t compete with. It’s this human connection and sense of belonging that turn every purchase into a meaningful exchange between customer and founder.
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