Why shopping local matters this Thanksgiving weekend

With Thanksgiving weekend kicking off one of the biggest shopping periods of the year, new economic data underscores the outsized impact of choosing local businesses.

For every $100 spent at a locally owned shop in Arizona, about $43 stays in the community, compared to just $13 when shoppers opt for big-box or national retailers. The difference supports neighborhood jobs, local artisans, and Arizona-based services that rely heavily on holiday revenue.

Local First Arizona says even small decisions, like choosing a local bookstore, boutique, or café, help keep money circulating in the state’s economy at a critical time.

CEO of Local First Arizona, Kimber Lanning, joined “Arizona Horizon” to highlight this year’s shopping trends and why supporting local businesses matters more than ever.

“I founded the organization 23 years ago,” Lanning explained, “…really because I wanted local businesses to have a voice, to have a seat at the table.”

Before the organization began in Arizona, there were two chain restaurants for every one local restaurant. However, today, that is the opposite, as there are two locally owned restaurants for every chain restaurant.

“People need to remember that the more they support those local businesses, it keeps dollars recirculating right here at home,” Lanning said.

Lanning discussed the importance of the multiplier effect, the idea that an initial change in spending or investment can lead to a larger, ripple-like change in overall economic activity in Arizona.

“There’s so many local choices out there for keeping those dollars local, and you’re going to get great customer service,” Lanning said.

Lanning emphasized how many local businesses rely heavily on the holiday season and the crowds to help prop the businesses up.

“This time of year, we are stocking up, and we are counting on community members to come on out,” Lanning said.