As our economy appears to be taking a turn for the better, I found myself taken aback by the news that one of our local archery outfitter stores was closing up shop. Local hunters will miss the services the archery shop there provided and I can’t help but think that perhaps things for them would’ve been different had they had more support from the local community.
While I’m not an avid archery hunter, I do appreciate what small local businesses like that provide: expert service and advice in a one-on-one exchange with a real person in your community that has a vested interest in your satisfaction. This is exactly what is at stake with the onset of on-line shopping and the big box chains.
Don’t misunderstand, I appreciate the convenience and affordability that technology and big business bring to communities. My Mom’s late years in small town Mena, AR were certainly made better with a Walmart nearby. Her income was meager, and affordable goods were crucial.
Small businesses cannot compete with the prices on-line and big box chains offer, but the price difference is often nominal and what we get in return far outweighs the few bucks you might save on a purchase. For example: if you purchase a rod & reel combo from an online retailer and find the action of the rod and the size of the reel is completely unsuitable for the type of fishing you plan to do, you’ve just spent a bunch of money on something you don’t even want or need. Whereas, had you discussed your fishing plans with a local expert at Howell Tackle or Angler’s Tackle, they would have known exactly what you needed. Beyond that, they would’ve had suggestions for line type & weight, lure type & size, rigging tips, local fishing conditions etc. What’s that worth?
Lindl’s Electric Motor Service has been this area’s only Minn Kota/Motorguide authorized sales and service center since 1980; you’ve got to go a long way from here to get similar services. These guys know trolling motors better than anyone I know! They’re honest, fair and perform outstanding work. If I need work on a broken trolling motor, they’re my first choice. When I needed to replace the trolling motor on my bass boat, I could’ve saved a few bucks ordering it on line, but I do all my trolling motor business with them because their success pays dividends in other tangible ways. While fishing one day, I called Jerry Lindl and explained the problem I was having with my motor, he took the time to walk me through the fix, and back to fishing I went. These guys are busy every day and he didn’t have to take the time to do that, but he did; rest assured the guy at online sales, if he’s even human, would not have.
Our local businesses are the life’s blood of this economy and have a direct, positive impact on our way of life in so many ways: jobs, infrastructure, community programs and more. Their success however depends on all of us doing our best to support them. Consider value beyond the few dollars you might save on an item. Consider the expert service and advice with a person of your community and how that might benefit you and all of us, and think about what that’s worth. When I buy local, I know that my money is growing my community and making life better for people right here. I know that big box CEO wants another Ferrari at his mansion, but when I can, I spend my money local.
~ Capt. Randy Cnota