The objective of every small business is to have customers and succeed but also to achieve someone’s dream and build connections. Small towns thrive on small business that keep money circulating locally. Large chains like Walmart and Starbucks can offer economic relief with cheaper prices and larger selections but in doing so they lead to decreased foot traffic to local businesses and money leaving the community. This is known officially as The Walmart Effect. A staggering 90% of Americans live within 15 miles of a Walmart. It is a tough job for a small business to battle against a chain with more than 4,000 stores across the US, but it’s not impossible. Reminding consumers of the importance of small business is a fundamental way to fight back.
Ballyhoo Books and Brew
Alma, Michigan
Townspeople often reminisce on the charming main streets with local shop owners that used to be the highlight of every small rural town. Unfortunately, people often forget to stand by their beliefs and promote local entrepreneurs. Small businesses may cost more but they donate to school sports boosters, support local causes and care about their customers. Small businesses are also a place for connection. Hardware stores where fathers take their sons for a new gear for their bike or coffee shops where church book clubs can meet are vital spaces for the community.
How does content influence sense of community?
Highlighting these stories is an excellent way to promote your small business and get locals more involved. Alma has many great aspects and unique opportunities for connection. Creating media that is identifiable to locals can generate interest while not seeming like an advertisement.
What types of content can promote community?
A video of an Alma College student studying on campus with a Ballyhoo coffee while create connections to students while also being entertaining and relatable. Posting content that parallels community events will drive clients to you platforms and your store. A post about study places around Alma during large college tours can create anticipation for potential students and their families.
Investing in Yourself and Community
Collaborating with other community entities is another tactic to promote vital public spaces. A video utilizing the River Walk can bring more taction not only to Ballyhoo but also to the great recreational opportunities our small town has to offer. While chain retailers seem distant and impersonal Ballyhoo appealing to the sense of camaraderie and mutual support is the ideal marketing goal. Proper marketing is vital for small business that don’t have stocks and loans to back losses. Every post becomes a possible sale, connection, and new member of your growing community.
Small businesses have unique ideal customers that are extremely focused on geographical location. Focusing on community hotspots can also generate more leads.
Does promoting community reduce customers for your business?
No! One may assume that
