Happy New Year!
I am trying to get this out before the start of 2018. How do you think our local businesses fared this holiday season? It's a small window of time and boutiques, shops, restaurants are trying to get a piece of that pie. It does not stop or rest there as commerce must be a daily continuance.  Here are some terrific Top 10 Reasons to Buy Local adapted from "localfirst.com.". 

1) Significantly more money recirculates in your local community. 
When you purchase at locally owned businesses rather than non-local businesses, more money is kept in the community because local businesses frequently purchase from other local businesses. Purchasing local goods and services helps grow area businesses as well as the local tax base.

2) Unique businesses create character and prosperity. 
The unique character offer communities is what brought us here and keeps us here.  Our tourism businesses also benefit. 

3) Environmental impact is reduced.
Local businesses make more local purchases and require less transportation. they are usually located n town rather than on the outskirts.  This reduces sprawl, congestion, habitats loss and pollution. 

4)  Most new jobs are provided by locally owned businesses. 
Small, locally owned businesses are the largest employers in the United States. 

​5)  Nonprofits receive greater support.  
Local business owners donate more to local charities than non-local owners. 

6) Customer service is better.  
Local businesses often hire people with more specific product or service expertise. 

7) Local business owners invest in community.  
Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community's future. 

8)  Public benefits far outweigh public costs.  
Local businesses require less infrastructure and more efficiently utilize public services compared to chain stores. 

9) Competition and diversity lead to more and better choices.
A market place of several small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term.

10)  Investment in the greater region is encouraged.
A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.  

As we head into 2018, I have been asking myself if I have gotten across to others, what this directory is all about?  With a new year here, I am asking businesses on the backroads, cities or in your homes, to purchase your basic listing from Travel Backroads and go from there--boosts, social media, videos, and anything else we can do to promote you.  I am working diligently advertising for travelers to find the Travel Backroads Directory online and whatever highways they find themselves on in the great plains this summer, 

List with Travel Backroads and we've got your back for a whole year of promotion, affordably! Make it a great 2018!!

Have a Great New Year,
Joan