Shop Local in Devils Lake this Holiday Season!

This holiday season, the team at Forward Devils Lake urges all Devils Lake to shop local! Shopping at downtown stores and dining at nearby restaurants this holiday season will help those businesses and grow the local economy. Aside from boosting the local economy and watching local business owners smile, shopping locally during the holidays has many other advantages. Find out how you can make a difference by shopping at a local business in Devils Lake during this splendid time in December.

As National Shop Local Month unfolds, there's no better time to celebrate the soulful essence of Devils Lake's local businesses. Within the heart of each county lie hidden gems, small businesses nurtured by passionate locals who infuse their products and services with a touch of community warmth.

Benefits of Shopping Local

A business's holiday sales can make or break its entire year. One report highlight from the MetLife and U.S. Chamber of Commerce Small Business Index is that 79 percent of small business owners in 2022 said that the holiday season is important for their yearly profit. Keep local businesses in mind whether you are doing some holiday shopping or dining out to celebrate the New Year.

While we, as customers, support our local businesses, these businesses support us, too. One report from American Express in 2018 said that for every dollar spent at a local business in the United States, 67 cents stay within the local economy. Local businesses also create jobs within their community. With such a positive impact on the local economy and job seekers, it’s easy to see why doing our part to keep these places in business is imperative. Also, 66 percent of small businesses indicated they had donated to local charities this year. Their generosity is an incentive to shower them with support during the holidays.

When shopping at a local store or eating a meal at a local restaurant, you can meet the owners and the various employees and access their local expertise. They can tell you what products and services can be used in your area or even point you toward other local businesses that may interest you. This friendly and inviting atmosphere paints a picture of what local businesses are all about.

Don’t forget that walking to a nearby store can help the environment. Walking instead of taking a car or bus will ultimately contribute to preventing air pollution. If your downtown community isn’t too far from where you live or work, consider walking there to shop and dine. 

“Shopping local is a win-win. I get to purchase from friends — supporting their businesses — while saving time and fuel driving out of town,” said a resident of Devils Lake. “Amazon just can’t compare to the happiness I feel shopping at our local stores!”

As you embark on holiday shopping or seek to indulge in quality services, consider the profound impact of choosing these local businesses. Their stories, dedication, and personalized touch enrich our shopping experiences and the essence of our beloved Devils Lake communities. This month and beyond, let's celebrate the spirit of shopping local, ensuring these invaluable businesses thrive and flourish.