On my Marketing blog post I asked if there were any topics that my audience might like me to address. Today’s blog post is in reference to one of the suggestions made. The question was how to avoid buying things from big box stores who have opposing political views from your own. I have actually pondered on this subject on many occasions so I thought I would share my thoughts today. And if you have any questions you would like to know my opinion or stance on, please feel free to comment.

There have been quite a few businesses lately that have put forth advertising and products that have been consistent with the political and woke agendas running rampant in our country. These businesses have come to quickly realize however, that regardless of what these parties are trying to normalize and push on the average citizen, most of us aren’t buying into their agenda, and consequently aren’t buying into their companies or products anymore and they have lost millions of dollars because of it.

Specific businesses like these, that sell products in other stores are easy to avoid, simply walk past and don’t buy. But avoiding an entire store, especially a big box store, where many products that we need are being sold, is a completely different, much harder prospect. But, I believe it is something we need to take into consideration when we go shopping, and having looked around my community, I think there are some great ways to avoid big box stores in general.

One suggestion by the person asking the question was buying local. I love this and have been a huge supporter of this for quite a number of years. There are Farmer’s Markets all over the country, in big cities and small towns, and there are so many local people, working hard, trying to make a living for their families, who would love the support (me included)! Farmer’s markets aren’t just about veggies either, there are so many great products that you can get at a local market. At the market I sell at you can buy things like art, soaps, wood products, pottery, baked goods, lunch, snacks, blankets, and so much more, along with the veggies, berries, and fruit.

Besides the market, there are a number of locally owned stores in my area, and I would imagine in other areas, that sell only locally produced items. Some items similar to farmers market offerings, but available all year not just in the summer. Other items as well that you might only find in those stores. These are fun to check out, and offer quite a wide range of options from housewares to clothing to furniture and everything in between. Again, the draw, at least for me, is that I am supporting someone local, as opposed to big corporations with agendas that I don’t care for. Look around your local area for these shops and check out their local products.

Ultimately, there are larger stores that I do frequent. There are also several stores and restaurants that I choose not to go to because they have made very public statements and display’s of what they choose to support, which is their right, but is inconsistent with what I believe, so I don’t shop at the ones that are very vocal. There are also a number of local shops that are very vocal about supporting things I disagree with. While I do like shopping local, and while I wish those shops well in their business ventures, I will not support them with my money. I believe we need to stand up for what we believe, and the dollar is one of the best ways to vote and have our voices heard.