Cinda Baxter initiated a “buy-local” movement called the 3/50 Project in 2009, at a time in our economic and social lives when it seemed we were all re-evaluating what is important to us. It encourages people to transact with three locally owned, independent businesses for purchase amounts of $50 each month as a way of ensuring a more stable home-town, home-grown business environment.
Just this week, a StarTribune columnist questioned the economics behind the movement and was greeted with 30 comments that were thoughtful, rational and well-written. It caused me to conclude that it’s great in theory and positioned at the “high purity” end of my shopping choices spectrum, but there are other ways for me to keep my local shopping district vital.
Living in the next zip code over from where I grew up, I frequent the four corners of retail that were significant to my youth. Back then, I rode my bike to my job at the local movie theatre and visited friends who worked at the drug store, Dairy Queen and shoe store. Today, the four corners area still serves area residents, with a hardware story, grocery store, two liquor stores, a Walgreen’s and other stores and services. It’s a place to run errands, get advice at the hardware store, grab a cup of coffee and have a good chance of seeing a friend or acquaintance.
While few of these stores are independent or locally-owned, I try to make my purchases within this shopping district when I can. I appreciate the ideals of the 3/50 Project and the convenience and higher levels of customer service. For example, the manager of the franchise pet store offered to order the special cat treats she doesn’t normally stock. (It’s hard enough putting the family cat on a restricted diet. Lately, I’ve been driving further to buy the cat food than I do to buy the food for the rest of the family!)
Not long ago, the livelihood of our little shopping district was threatened by a SuperTarget proposed within a mile. Had our little shopping district been any less vital, the ominous shadow of the SuperTarget may very well have prevailed. Super stores and big box retail are perceived as viable, positive additions when other retailers have failed or are faltering.
While the impact might not be huge, I try each month to strategically direct my purchasing power. For every transaction in our little shopping district:
- Managers report their monthly and annual receipts, which in turn supports extending the lease or perhaps expanding to a larger site in the area;
- Start-up stores and services find our area attractive and convenient.
- Older and less-mobile people can be assured that they can get what they need to live independently without having to navigate big stores, big parking lots or long drives.
- Vitality breeds vitality and helps housing sales, crime rates and support for community organizations.
- The buyer may have paid $1 more for the product or service, but saved that amount in fuel.
With more folks buying less for all sorts of reasons, the economics of retail are changing. When you make your next errand list, remember it’s your money, but it’s also your home, your neighborhood, your community and your happiness.
