Growing up, my mom, sister, and I would spend July Thursday nights at the local farmers' market. We lived for the fresh carrots, beets, and rhubarb pies. Saturdays were for craft shows and perusing through handcrafted items. Shopping local, for us, was just a way of life. But things became faster. I grew up and stopped appreciating the peace of mind that comes from slowly shopping and shopping locally.
Due to globalization, smaller businesses are struggling to keep afloat. It's hard for a mom-and-pop shop to compete with the prices of international conglomerates. The lure of big box and chain store can negatively impact local and smaller economies. That's why I'm an advocate of shopping small and shopping locally.
Several studies show that buying from an independent, locally-owned business, rather than a nationally-owned business, is better for your community. There's s greater chance that the money you just spent will be used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers, and farms — continuing to strengthen the economic base of the community.