READ MORE FROM OUR “SHOP LOCAL” FEATURE HERE.
If you’ve ever stopped into a local shop in Milwaukee, you might notice it feels a bit different than shopping just anywhere. You might notice employees and shop owners eagerly helping you find what you need, patrons recommending their faves to each other, stores supporting other stores.
Why? Because Milwaukee shows up proudly to support our local businesses. And it’s good that we do.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Economic Impact
When you shop locally, around two-thirds of every dollar spent stays in the local economy to support other local businesses, community members and causes. That means your money recirculates locally 2-4 times more than if you shop at a chain.
Environmental Pros
Shipping and returning products contributed to 37% of total greenhouse gas emissions in 2020, largely as a result of online shopping. When you ditch the shipping and shop at a local store, your purchase is using less transportation to get that item to you, and therefore, fewer emissions.
Better Shopping Experience
Wandering around a local retailer, you can pick up items to feel the quality, weight and durability, smell the candles, chat with the shop owner, and try on the clothes. It’s an experience as much as it’s an exchange. No returns needed.
Community Relationships
Local shopping offers something big box stores don’t: business owners who deeply care about the community they serve. Whether that’s supporting a local nonprofit or hosting events, they’re in the community and building relationships.
Only in Milwaukee
Our local shops shape our city’s culture, community and landscape, making the experience entirely unique. These are businesses that you can only find in Milwaukee, and they’re more than just shops – they are the dreams of the shopkeepers, kept alive by you, the shopper.
