WWYD? helping small local businesses/budget

where do you draw the line in supporting these businesses when their costs are so much higher than national chains?


i paid an awful lot for something this weekend that i could have gotten at a fraction. i'm feeling taken advantage of and not that i'm helping the little guy.

thoughts?

Re: WWYD? helping small local businesses/budget

I just had this conversation this weekend. I understand the idea of it but I can't understand paying much more for something out of our money. I will gladly shop at a smaller store if they can provide the same thing at a competitive price but not to pay a ton more. My brother is a diver (hobby) and divers are big on supporting the LDS (local dive store). But he recently wanted to purchase something that was $200 on ebay and $280 at the LDS. He said he would be willing to pay $240 at the store since it would cost him about $230 with shipping on ebay. I think $10 more to support a small merchant is pretty generous of him for an item of that cost but $50 would be ridiculous. I know I am not going into a local hardware store and paying a lot more for something that costs a lot less elsewhere. But I would do it if there is a specialized quality or customer service difference. Honestly, a Mom & Pop can't expect to get by these days without offering something more to balance out the higher cost for people.

Message edited 6/15/2009 10:40:31 AM.

Re: WWYD? helping small local businesses/budget

I don't buy stuff from small businesses that I could get much cheaper at a big box store. BUT I do go to small stores for boutique items.

For example.. box of tissues? I'm buying it at Target. Handmade custom wrapping paper? Little store. I am gonna pay more than I would for a roll at Target - but the quality is superior and the look is unique so I shell out the cash. Casual summer dress for my godchild? I'll pick it up at Old Navy. Communion gown for her one and only communion? Small boutique. I'm paying more for the attention to detail and quality fabric.

There are other things too.. where the cost is slightly higher but I'll still go for the small store. For example - I tend to go to a small, independent book store because I like the recommendations and the personalized service I get from the owner.. I might not get a 25% coupon - but I don't care. Customer care is really big for me.