To help support local businesses during these tough and unprecedented times, here are six things you can do:
1. Get online and order up
More and more small businesses are moving online to ensure they stay afloat and keep running – particularly in the last few weeks. So, instead of ordering clothes or groceries from major department stores and supermarkets, choose local. And if you can, order takeaway from the restaurant directly, not via the major delivery apps which often charge hefty fees.
If you know a family doing it tough and you’re financially okay, why not send them a bunch of flowers to brighten their day (plus you’ll be supporting a local florist) or order them some food staples and have them delivered? Small gestures go a long way.
2. Leave a sparkling review
Now’s the time to be their cheer squad. If you’re tightening the financial belt and you’re unable to spend, you can support local businesses by leaving them a positive review online. This simple act (which takes less than a few minutes) helps businesses feel the love and may encourage others to use their services.
3. Share the love
After you leave a positive review, share it on social media. A personal recommendation can help the business reach a new audience and potentially increase sales. Don’t forget to tag them too so they can see you’re on their side.
4. Purchase a gift card
Touching up your roots and a foot spa may be currently off-limits, but in the weeks/months to come, you’ll be craving a little pampering. Help small businesses (such as beauty salons and fashion retailers) with cash flow by purchasing gift cards which can be used at a later date.
5. Tip, if you can
It’s no secret that a few dollars here and there add up. So, if you’re ordering food or supporting your local cafe, leave a cheeky tip. With the new restrictions and social distancing, retailers and the hospitality industry will particularly be feeling the pinch – and now is the time to rally together and help the local community.
To help show you how a little goes a long way, imagine your local café now only serves 50 coffees each morning. And if every customer tipped $2, that’s $100 a day which equates to $700 a week.
6. Look for discounts
You know that winter jacket you’ve been eyeing off? And those leather boots you’ve been dreaming of? They may now fit your budget.
To encourage sales and increase cash flow, many small businesses are discounting their stock. Now’s the time to show your support by snapping up a bargain (or two) and ensure your wardrobe is on trend once self-isolation comes to an end.
Put the ‘u’ in community. Local restaurants, cafes, bookstores and fashion boutiques are struggling to stay open and make ends meet. Not only do they have their small business to look after but behind the scenes, they also have families to care for and rent/mortgages to pay. Whether it’s a positive online review or purchasing a few gift cards, get behind local businesses and help them get through these tough times.
This article is prepared based on general information. It does not take into account individual financial objectives or needs and is not financial product advice.