Over the course of the past year, I heard a lot of people talking about buying local. As an ad rep for a media company, this thought keeps me thinking. Thinking about local businesses and their owners. First of all, let me simply say that it is my desire to support local businesses as much as possible. With the exception of my running stuff, most of my shopping is done locally.
When I hear people suggesting that I buy locally, the first thing I ask is why? I ask this because I want to know their reason. Currently, the City of Enid is building a trail system. I support that, and I hope my tax dollars are as well. They are also in the beginning stages of a downtown development that is critically opposed by a good number of Enid citizens. I’m afraid my tax dollars aren’t being used wisely in that instance. Let me share my other thoughts.
There are many businesses in this town that I will shop first for anything that I think they may have. I love their store, their philosophy, their people. For instance, if I were in the mood for a pair of boots, or a felt hat, Way Out West wins. Great people, great history in Enid. There are many businesses like that here, but there are many others that simply expect me to shop their store. They don’t earn my business. Why should I shop there if they don’t care about me, the customer?
We are all guilty of running to the city, or Tulsa, to shop at Sam’s or another big chain. This really doesn’t help our local economy, but sometimes it just makes good sense economically (for the family). If I can buy the bulk items in OKC and same money doing so, I will continue. A lot of times, we run to OKC for running gear and just get the other shopping done while we’re there. Better choice of family restaurants and much better shopping choices.
Enid has a great selection of higher end restaurants with Panevino, Callahan’s, and a few others, but we don’t have much selection of family type eating establishments. Outside of Chili’s and Applebee’s, what are the good choices for a family?
When it comes to shopping, we have the same dilemma. Can anyone point out a good men’s store, besides Gary Hulse? The women have plenty to choose from, but what about kids and men? Do we have a good place to shop for teens? NO!!
I honestly hope our city management can lure better choices to our lovely little town. We need it. We need it now.
Until then, I ask all local businesses to treat their customers with respect. Respect their time, their money and their effect on your bottom line. Show them that you WANT their business, don’t expect it.
