Saving the Brick and Mortars our nation was built on

If you haven't been made aware of The 350 Project, consider it done. It is a relatively new effort founded by Cinda Baxter, a retail consultant and public speaker. To learn more and become a supporter visit http://www.the350project.net

Supporting local businesses is important to me, not only because Mike and I own one, but simply because it is these businesses that build our community. I find I get the best customer service and quality goods from the privately owned businesses. I enjoy meeting the owners. I feel welcomed and they work hard to get me to come back. I'm referring to not only retail establishments, but restaurants, landscaping, pest control, bed and breakfasts, newspapers, health food stores, bicycle shops, work out studios...the list is endless and Wilmington has them all.

The idea is simple: (From the website)
3 - Pick out three independently owned businesses that you would miss if they disappeared. Stop In Say Hello. Pick up something that brings a smile. Your purchases are what keeps these businesses around.
50-If half of the employed population spent $50 each month in locally owned businesses, it would generate more than 42.6 billion in revenue. Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of the employed population did that.
68-For every $100 spent in locally owned independent stores, $68 returns to the community in taxes, payroll and other expenditures. Spend it in a national chain, and only $43 stays local. Spend it online and nothing comes back.
1-The number of people it takes to start the trend...YOU.

In Cinda's words "The idea is to commit $50 each month to locally owned businesses, total. Maybe that means rethinking where you currently invest your money, opting to pick up that birthday card or pair of jeans in a locally owned business instead of the big box you’ve been going to. Or maybe it means eating out once a month because you realize slamming the breaks on all spending stalls economic recovery."

My words...think about and then pick your three businesses You would miss. Thank-you