Where do you prefer to shop?
“One of my favorite small local businesses is Bohemian High in Milford. It’s a cute store that sells a bunch of different things, including holistic healing options and clothes,” said senior Callie Merva. “I prefer small businesses because I would rather support families in my community.”
Between small businesses, large chains and online retailers, students have many options when it comes to purchasing goods and services, the most popular among these choices being locally-owned businesses.
According to Oberlo, a computer software company, “In 2020, the number of small businesses in the U.S. reached 31.7 million, making up nearly all (99.9 percent) U.S. businesses.”
While the actual number of small businesses is large, the level of economic activity is still lower than chains.
According to the Small Business Administration, “[Small businesses] account for 44 percent of U.S. economic activity.”
One reason for their popularity may be that they offer their customers a chance to form intimate relationships with local business owners.
“I get to know all of my customers on a first-name basis so when they come in, I know about their life, they know about mine. People come in and say ‘I needed to talk to you’ or ‘I feel better after I come here,’ so it’s not just about the shakes and teas,” said Megan Uhrynowski, owner of Next Level Nutrition. Next Level Nutrition, located in downtown Fairfield, serves healthy shakes and energizing teas.
While small businesses have many advantages, there are some disadvantages as well.
“At a local business, some things may be priced higher than they are online or at a chain store,” said senior Julia Miloscia. “However, with that price comes the quality and love that the owners put into it.”
Some students feel that large chains overshadow small businesses.
“I don’t think local businesses are as well known around Bridgeport because the mall is at the center,” said junior Isabelle Estremera. “I know that there are local businesses because I did Community Connections. If I didn’t do that, I probably wouldn’t have known.”
With the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become even more difficult for small businesses to thrive.
According to NBC News, “From March 1 to Aug. 11, about 155,000 businesses shuttered. Yelp estimates roughly 91,000 of the closures are permanent.”
Some students have also been using online shopping as a safer alternative to shopping in-person.
“I have been shopping online mostly when it comes to buying clothes or just stuff to have in the house,” said senior Deasha Bent. “I buy in bulk so I don’t have to constantly risk exposure.”
With the influx of traffic, digital retailers, such as Amazon, have gained more profit.
According to TIME, “Every lockdown ‘click to purchase’ has nudged [Amazon] a little further toward utter domination of online shopping as total e-commerce sales nearly doubled in May.”
However, some students who have ordered online have noticed issues with their items.
“As a society, we got to see a disadvantage with shopping online: when things go out of stock or backorder to months later,” said junior Mason Duckworth.
Although local businesses may be losing profit during the pandemic, their unique aspect of socialization still makes them attractive places for some students.
“I prefer small business because I like being able to socialize and connect with the people I am going to benefit by buying at their store,” said Miloscia. “If I were to shop online, yes, it would be easier, but I would not develop a relationship with the people who make the store possible.
