The summer is finally here!
For most of us, it’s synonymous with holiday trips, family time, rest, relaxation and, hopefully, loads of sunshine. It’s also the time of events and celebrations of different shapes and forms.
In July, the heroes (often unsung) of small communities and a true growing force also get their own holiday – and for the whole month!
We’re talking about Independent Retailer Month. If you’ve never heard of it – here’s a chance for you to find out more.
What is Independent Retailer Month?
Independent Retailer Month is a special event with one message – shop locally. It’s basically a small business appreciation event.
It may seem that their role started to diminish to a certain degree with the rise of online businesses and corporate dominance, but their importance to local communities hasn’t really changed all that much.
How it All Began
Independent Retailer Month first started back in 2003 in the United States as a more modest event. At that time, it was called National Independent Retailer Week, founded by the principal of Profits Plus Solutions, Tom Shay.
A few years later, in 2009, Kerry Bannigan, a social entrepreneur, came up with a different take on the event centred around fashion retailers, launching a week-long event across the biggest cities in the US, including New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and New Jersey. It was called “Independent Retail Week”.
They managed to get the government and local authorities on board, and with their support, the event generated plenty of interest; over 400 retailers participated. The whole thing made national news, with features on the biggest TV stations in the US.
Two years later, Shay and Bannigan decided to join forces. They wanted to continue to turn the event into something more universal, even though their ideas were not so different from the start. Something that any independent retail could join and celebrate.
Their vision eventually became a reality and gained a lot of traction, perhaps exceeding their expectations, expanding internationally as a big celebration every July.
One major, month-long event to replace the original two – National Independent Retailer Week and Independent Retail Week.
The main idea was to bring attention to the contributions of independent retailers and to encourage consumers to support them and help them survive and thrive in a competitive marketplace dominated by large corporations.
That’s because they both understood what a crucial role they’re playing. In the end – they’re the backbone of the economy.
Who's an Independent Retailer?
That can be a bit confusing especially nowadays with so many business types and models. The idea goes back to Mom and Pops shops, small, often family-owned enterprises offering various products to their local communities.
Nowadays, an independent retailer doesn’t necessarily have to be small, but it does have to be run and owned independently – or privately – rather than being a part of a franchise chain or big corporation.
They can make their own product or sell goods produced by other companies, online or not. In fact, they can operate in the Internet sphere exclusively and still be considered an independent retailer.
Why Shopping with Indie Retailers Matters
It’s time to finally address the elephant in the room. Is it just about snubbing the big guys to help out the family-owned small shops and stores?
It can be a part of the reason, no doubt. But is that enough? Big guys are everywhere. They’re quick, easy and convenient.
There’s a chance you’d be making a sacrifice if you decide to choose the indie retailer route, right? What’s the point?
No Leaks
Any aware consumer understands the value and importance of the local community. Private businesses in that community can be a stepping stone in making it sustainable and self-sufficient.
How? By keeping the money within and preventing leaks, they help your neighbourhood grow and thrive.
This could mean more jobs and services, so a pound spent is invested back into the local economy, more often than not. For reference, a single purchase in a big chain store means that 80% of the value leaves your community straight away.
Giving Back
These businesses serve the community – so it’s only right to give something back. Many of these stores are landmarks, completely unique places full of unmistakable and inimitable charm.
Their future is literally in our hands. We should take responsibility. Much like the community – it’s shared.
Greener Planet
When you shop local, you move local. For the most part, there’s no need to even use your car.
Same for businesses - less deliveries, shipping, waste, and everything that comes with readily available cheaply made or grown produce we’re seeing on the shelves of supermarkets and big chain stores.
Plenty of small businesses choose to implement sustainable practices – and mean it. It’s easier for them as they’re much more adaptable.
Social Interaction & Customer Services
People are what makes a community. Indie retailers often have deep roots and have been a part of that community for generations. They know everybody, and everybody knows them.
That comes with stronger and deeper relationships between the owners or employees and customers, as well as a more personalised customer service experience.
Small independent retailers know and love their products – and it shows every step of the way.
How to Join the Event
We’re well into July – but it doesn’t mean you can’t join now. It’s simple. Show your support to your local retailers or small businesses online.
Spread the Word. Leave a positive review, or promote your favourite local retailers through social media to raise awareness – encourage people to try them and let them know what they’re missing out on. It doesn’t take much for you, but it can make all the difference for them.
Shop Local. Go to a local farmer’s market instead of the supermarket. Stay off Amazon for the rest of the month and look for independent brands for your next online purchase. That pillow, stone bath mat, new bedsheets – they’re surely all available on their own websites.
Buy Sustainable. Supporting independent brands does even more for the environment. You can find high-quality, planet-conscious products in our store – from natural bathroom mats, with our flagship stone bath mat, to organic cotton and bamboo towels, made exclusively with OEKO-TEX 100 and GOTS-certified fabrics.
Your Independent Choice Matters
Independent Retailer Month is not just an event – it’s a call to action. Show your support and appreciation in this special time.
And don’t worry, loyal customers also get something back – plenty of stores and online businesses offer special discounts, events, coupons and vouchers, and much more.
And there’s no reason to make this month-long celebration an everyday habit.
