This story appears in the December issue of Utah Business. Subscribe.
As we approach the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of online shopping and the convenience of one-click purchases and doorstep deliveries. However, let’s remember the heart and soul of Utah’s economy — our local businesses. As you make your lists and check them twice, consider this your friendly reminder to make the conscientious choice to shop at the small businesses in your community.
Utahns should consider shopping at small businesses this holiday season for several reasons. First, you can find more unique and personal items when you shop small. Small businesses often make products by hand in small batches, resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces. They often offer customized products and personal touches you can’t get at big-box stores. In fact, 37 percent of Americans say they shop local for a more personal experience. Almost 59 percent of consumers say shopping at small businesses is less stressful.
One of the biggest reasons to shop local is to contribute to Utah’s vibrant, resilient and interconnected local economy. When we support local businesses, they help us in return by contributing to local causes and projects, creating jobs, participating in charitable events, and keeping money in the community. For every dollar you spend at a small business, 67 cents stays in the local community and an additional 50 cents is created in local business activity.
We all have a role to play in the success of our community economy, and you couldn’t be in a better state to shop locally. Utah receives high rankings and accolades for its economic opportunity initiatives. In 2024 alone, Utah was ranked the No. 1 best state to start a business, was named one of the nation’s best economies, and became home to two of the top five best small cities for starting a business. There are endless home-grown businesses where you can do your holiday shopping and support our state’s ever-growing economy.
The ways to support Utah’s small businesses are limitless, whether dining at a local restaurant, purchasing gift cards, sharing your favorite spots on social media, writing reviews or participating in local business events. If you need help figuring out where to start, visit the Salt Lake Chamber’s website, where we highlight small businesses monthly.
Another fantastic resource is the Utah Women-Owned Business Directory, hosted by the Women’s Business Center of Utah. There, you can browse an inclusive list of Utah’s women-owned and operated businesses, supporting the organization’s mission to empower and celebrate the achievements of women entrepreneurs. We also recommend the Downtown Winter Farmers Market, where you can buy fresh produce and artisanal products directly from small, local farms and vendors.
Regardless of how you support small businesses in Utah, find meaningful ways to celebrate our local entrepreneurs’ resilience, innovation and charm. We all have a role to play in the success of our local economy. Together, we can help our local businesses thrive this holiday season and beyond.