Shop Local

Shop Local

Southern Illinois area Chambers of Commerce work together every year to inspire Southern Illinoisans to do a majority of their shopping in the region, rather than traveling outside of the area or shopping online. The effort, called “Shop Southern Illinois,” features a strong social media presence where residents can learn some of the reasons it is important for Southern Illinois to shop locally and where they may pledge to do most of their own shopping in the region by using the hashtag #IBuySI.

Southern Illinois area Chambers of Commerce work together every year to inspire Southern Illinoisans to do a majority of their shopping in the region, rather than traveling outside of the area or shopping online. The effort, called “Shop Southern Illinois,” features a strong social media presence where residents can learn some of the reasons it is important for Southern Illinois to shop locally and where they may pledge to do most of their own shopping in the region by using the hashtag #IBuySI.


Here’s why it helps: Each dollar you spend at a local, independent business returns 50 times more money to your local economy than shopping at a mega e-retailer.


Amount that stays in your community when you spend $100: 

 

  • At a locally-owned business: $68
  • At a chain store: $43
  • At Amazon: $0

 

Each dollar you spend at a local, independent business returns 50 times more money to your local economy than shopping at a mega e-retailer. All across our great state small businesses provide our communities with good jobs, quality service, and the character that makes our cities, towns and neighborhoods feel like home


Over 50% of the SOIL region is made up of small and medium sized businesses. Why Buy SI?


Receive the personal touch Employees are personally invested in the products or services and will go the extra mile for their customers.


Creates more jobs and investment Since the 1995, 66% of new jobs are generated by small business. For each $1 spent by on advertising any IL business, $9 goes back into the community.


Shorter lines Shorter lines mean less stress and hassle when it comes to getting what you need!


Reduces environmental impact Local businesses make more local purchases, so less transportation is required. In turn, you’re contributing less to pollution, traffic congestion, habitat loss and resource depletion. 


Non-profits receive more support Local business owners provide significant support for non-profits. In fact, non-profits receive as much as 350% more money from local shops than non-locally owned businesses.


Puts taxes to good use Taxes paid by small, local businesses are widely used to support schools, parks, roads, and other local programs! On average, 48% of each purchase at local independent businesses is recirculated locally, compared to less than 14% of purchases at chain stores


Unique & exclusive Two words…small batch. The production of small-batch products involves the use of techniques, processes, and/or ingredients that might not be seen as “cost-efficient” in mass production.

 

NEWS / BLOG POSTS

Ribbon Cutting at Rachael Academy of Education

By Karen Mullins • 13 Feb, 2024
On Monday, February, members of the business community, civic leaders, and staff of Rachael Academy of Education gathered to celebrate the opening of their new facility in Marion. Ribbon Cutting guests were greeted by Chamber Board Chair Deborah Hogg. Mayor Michael Absher spoke about need in this area for additional educational and behavioral resources. Mary Anderson, Directory of the academy, and Nathan thanked their staff, interns, and community partners on their help to make this facility a reality. About The Rachael Academy of Education Here at The Rachel Academy of Education, we empower, support and encourage students and their families while promoting advocacy and equal education. We acknowledge someone's strengths and weaknesses while enhancing the quality of life in others. We uplift, motivate, and cultivate success for our students.

Ribbon Cutting at Deaconess Illinois Clinic

By Karen Mullins • 26 Jan, 2024
On Friday, January 26th, healthcare partners, elected officials, Deaconess representatives, and Chamber members gathered to celebrate the new healthcare partnership between Deaconess Illinois and the established practice of Dr. James Alexander and his medical partners. Ribbon Cutting guests were greeted by Dr. Alexander and Chamber Board Chair Deborah Hogg. Mayor Michael Absher and State Representative Paul Jacobs spoke about the importance of quality healthcare to meet the growing needs of our area. About Deaconess Illinois Clinic Deaconess Illinois Clinic is a nonprofit multi-specialty medical group committed to serving the needs of our community. Our guiding principle is to put the patient at the center of all we do and provide exceptional, cost-effective care. Our physicians and advanced practice providers are your partners in health — diagnosing, treating, and preventing problems and helping you stay healthy. Additional clinic benefits: 12 patient rooms that are beautiful, spacious, and private Patients will have a much-improved experience in our enhanced facility that offers lab service 4 days a week. Learn more at:  https://www.deaconessillinoisclinic.com/locations/location-detail?id=58&name=DeaconessIllinoisClinic-ProfessionalPark

Ribbon Cutting at CRTH

By Karen Mullins • 21 Dec, 2023
On Wednesday, December 13th, mental health community partners, elected officials, and Chamber members gathered to celebrate the opening of more support options to the Marion Community. Ribbon Cutting guests were greeted by Chamber Board Vice Chair Deborah Hogg and Mayor Michael Absher spoke about the need of mental health support and the deep impact Centerstone’s resources have on our community. Centerstone Regional CEO Anne Tyree, Hannah Jones, and Erin Camfield talked about the mission and benefits of the new facility. After the ceremony, guests took tours of the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments. About CRTH - Centerstone.org/crth The CRTH offers 16 beds for men and women, age 18 and older, needing additional support in a recovery-based, integrative environment. A transitional living facility for those who are new to recovery and are committed to a full life away from addiction, the CRTH offers treatment for individuals who are medically stable and in need of longer-term recovery housing.
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EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

INFO ON SHOPPING LOCAL

TOP 10 REASONS TO BUY LOCAL - By Susan Odum
Extension Educator
Community & Economic Development
University of Illinois Extension
  1. Local businesses recycle a much larger share of their revenue back into the local economy; therefore, the more money you spend locally, the more those dollars stay in our community.
  2. Local businesses employ individuals who live within the community and contribute to the growth of the local economy.
  3. Buy Local contributes to the growth of the local tax base and provides needed revenues to support essential services, like public safety and infrastructure improvements, such as roads and streets.
  4. Local business owners have a vested interest in our community’s future and are less likely to leave.
  5. When local businesses succeed, they stay and they thrive, which in turn attracts new businesses. 
  6. Local businesses are the major supporters of local charities, athletics programs, fundraisers and school activities.
  7. Local business owners attend our local churches, school programs and community events and their children and grandchildren attend our local schools.
  8. Local businesses traditionally offer superior customer service and take the time to build personal and lasting relationships with their customers.
  9. Local businesses are the lifeblood of the community, therefore, critical to the community’s survival. 
  10. Buy Local encourages and ensures local prosperity, by supporting existing jobs and creating an environment for new job growth. 
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