Too often, we receive calls about another locally owned business closing.

For whatever reasons, locally owned businesses are struggling. Often, consumers believe the bigger chains have the name brands they are shopping for, better prices and more convenience. When enough folks begin passing the small stores for the big boxes, the result is just what one would expect — the small stores close up shop.

The owners of these businesses are probably neighbors, friends, family members and friendly faces you have more than likely seen before. They are trying to run a business and make a living, just like the rest of us. They need all of our support to succeed. These businesses depend on us for profit. They depend on our loyalty.

Those businesses that are chains have attractive qualities like the weekly sales and convenience of having a wide variety of items. But, many locally owned businesses have sales, too, especially when an event is going on. They also tend to sell more items than you might think.

But one thing you can’t get at most chain stores is personal contact. At most locally owned businesses, the owners and employees go the extra mile for their customers. They engage in conversation with you, help you find what you are looking for and care about you becoming a returning customer.

The local restaurants that aren’t chains also have that same quality. People who work at these places almost always make sure the food you order is just the way you want it. And often the food is just better.

If you have never been to a business, but it looks interesting, it probably is. And if you haven’t been to one of these local shops in a while, make your way back to it the next time you think about buying a gift for someone, going out to eat or just doing some shopping.

Without us, these local businesses will die, and then what would make this area any different than the rest?