5 reasons to shop small versus big box

The importance of small businesses to the economy cannot be overstated. Though national chains often garner publicity, local businesses are equally, if not exceedingly, worthy of attention.

What defines a small business as “small” varies significantly, but these businesses are generally privately owned and generate far less revenue than big corporations. General consensus also defines small businesses as companies with fewer than 500 paid employees, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Here’s a deep look at why small businesses are so vital, and why consumers should direct more of their purchasing power to smaller companies rather than the big box retailers and other national chains.

1. Autonomy and diversity

The layout and offerings at national chains will be identical whether you live in the mountains or at the beach. Big box stores follow a consistent marketing strategy and look the same regardless of where they are located. That familiarity can come at the cost of variety. On the other hand, an independent business offers the products and services that are reflective of the customers and the community they serve.

2. Local hiring strategy

Certain big box retailers will hire local residents, but hiring policies may push for promoting from within the organization. This could mean relocating an employee rather than bringing in someone from the community who may be more in tune with local sensibilities. Small businesses may be more inclined to hire residents they know and keep hiring centralized to the local area — something that keeps more resources and money in the community.

3. Adaptability and change

Local businesses can move more quickly to respond to economic factors that require change. Since they are focused more on the needs of their customers rather than stockholders, changes can be implemented rapidly without having to go through red tape, meetings and updates to corporate policies. Changes also can be customized to the local community at large.

4. Investing in the town

According to the financial resource Financial Slot, shopping at locally owned businesses rather than big box retailers keeps more money in the community. Local property taxes and other taxes paid by the businesses go right back into the community. This helps raise overall value for homeowners and can even reduce their taxes. The funding helps keep police, fire and school departments functioning properly.

5. Turnover is greater

While no one wants to see a small business fail, that fate is sometimes unavoidable. However, that turnover helps teach communities what was done poorly and helps others learn from those mistakes. It also means fresh businesses will come in and replace the old, driving new growth, opportunity and competition that keeps prices competitive.

The benefits of a thriving small business sector are numerous. Consumers can do their part by patronizing these firms more frequently.

Q: I’m really enjoying the new show “Fire Country.” However, I always worry that a show I invest my time in will be canceled. How is this one doing with its ratings? -U.T.

A: CBS recently ordered full seasons for three of its new series: “East New York,” “So Help Me Todd,” and “Fire Country,” so that should give you a vote of confidence. According to TVLine.com, the network didn’t announce specifically what constitutes a “full season” for these particular shows, but I would say it stands a very good chance of being renewed for its second season as well.

“Fire Country” stars Max Thieriot (“SEAL Team”) as a recently released prison inmate fighting brush fires out west. It had the highest-rated season premiere this fall for a network television show. It also airs on Friday nights, which is not an ideal time slot, since people not only have a lot of options for entertainment as the weekend approaches. But with more than 8 million viewers tuning in, I would call it a win for CBS.

Thieriot himself has a lot invested in his new series, as he’s not just starring in it, but he also co-created the series with producer Jerry Bruckheimer.

Thieriot’s interest behind the camera began with directing an episode of “Bates Motel,” a series on A&E starring Vera Farmiga and Freddie Highmore. Thieriot played Dylan, the half-brother of the infamous Norman Bates. He then went on to direct a couple episodes of “SEAL Team.”

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Q: Could you give me some information on Gabe Rygaard from “Ax Men” and Darrell Ward from “Ice Road Truckers?” -S.W.

A: Gabe Rygaard was the owner of Rygaard Logging after his father, Craig, retired at the end of season six of the reality series “Ax Men.” Sadly, Rygaard died in a car accident in 2016 in Washington, where he lived. “Ax Men” aired on the History channel for 10 seasons. Rygaard’s death occurred after filming was completed for the ninth season. After a three-year hiatus, the show returned for just one more season.

Another tragedy struck the families of the History Channel when Darrell Ward of the “Ice Road Truckers” fame died in a plane crash, also in 2016. He was piloting a single-engine Cessna on the way back from a fan event in Dallas when it crashed in Montana. Ironically, just before his death, he was set to start filming a new documentary series about plane wreckage locations. *** Q: I think Niecy Nash is fantastic in “The Rookie.” What else has she been in? -- L.P.

A: Niecy Nash has been acting on screen since the mid-1990s, but it was her hilarious role in the ensemble comedy “Reno 911!” that put her on the map. Since then, she’s effortlessly switched from comedy to drama in memorable lead and supporting roles, including two limited series on Netflix: “When They See Us” and “Dahmer -- Monster.”

Nash is no doubt thrilled to learn that ABC just renewed “The Rookie: Feds” for a total of 22 episodes this season.

Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.