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BBB Tip: Support small businesses

Discover tips for shopping small and learn how you can make a meaningful impact in your hometown today.

Back to local business for consumers

How can you support small businesses as a consumer?

Supporting locally-owned small businesses is a powerful way to strengthen your community and help them thrive. From finding hidden gems in your neighborhood to shopping small online, there are countless ways to make a difference. Whether you’re exploring new stores, connecting with local restaurants, or sharing your experiences on social media, your support matters year-round.

         

What you'll learn:

  • How consumers can show support to local businesses
  • The importance of leaving customer reviews
  • How to find trustworthy businesses to support

BBB offers the following tips to "Shop Small," any time of the year:

Young african woman smiling at sunset Sometimes it's better to think small to make a big impact.
  • Research the shops nearest to you. Before heading to a big-box store or placing an online order with a major retailer, check if a local business offers what you need. Whether it's a boutique, a service provider, or a neighborhood restaurant, your choice to shop small makes a difference. Find out what past customers have to say by reading reviews online, such as those on BBB.org.  

  • Get involved. Support the businesses that make your hometown unique. Find out what local events are happening in your area by visiting your local chamber of commerce or merchants’ association. Check out American Express's advice on how to Shop Small at ShopSmall.org.

  • Sign up for email alerts offered by the merchants in your area. Keep in mind that you’ll probably get additional deals throughout the year.

  • Connect with businesses on social media. Many small businesses will advertise their sales via social media. 
Handsome man taking notes and looking at laptop, at home office, portrait. BBB encourages communities to come together and support locally-owned small businesses.
  • Recommend businesses to your friends and family. Turn this shopping event into a “friends and family” extravaganza! Visit your favorite local stores or explore a new one. Take time to get to know the business owners. Also consider purchasing gift cards. Gift cards to your favorite local spots make great presents and help businesses bring in revenue now. You can also recommend your favorite small businesses to coworkers, friends, and family.

  • Don’t just shop retail small, grab takeout from a local restaurant and support your local service providers. Many people think that shopping at local retail stores is the only way to participate. However, small independently owned restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops would love to invite in new customers. Local service providers—like mechanics, landscapers, salons, and pet groomers—rely on their communities just as much as retail stores do.

  • Shop small online, too. Local entrepreneurs may have an online website or Etsy shop that they promote via local social media and word of mouth.

For more information

Read more about BBB Accreditation Standards
See BBB's standards for trust
Are you a business owner? Learn more about BBB Accreditation