Sanders hatched his Kentucky Fried Chicken empire by selling fried chicken at a gas station he ran in North Corbin, Kentucky. Ash hocked Stanley Home Products, brooms and brushes, before moving to lipstick and eyeliners, creating her own line of beauty products. Kroc was a traveling salesman before turning the McDonald\u2019s brothers\u2019 San Bernardino hamburger stand into the world\u2019s largest restaurant chain. And Branson began his global conglomerate, Virgin Group, by selling mail-order records out of a local church in southeast England. Of the four, only Kroc had any previous sales experience, which makes their success even more incredible.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Small is a point” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
“Small” is a point of view<\/strong><\/h3>\nSmall businesses are definitely not small potatoes when it comes to employment and commerce in the United States. According to the Small Business Association, there are over 33 million small businesses in the United States, and they make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses. They employ more than 61 million people, which accounts for 45.9% of all employment in the country.<\/p>\n
According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 43.5% of the domestic gross national product (GNP) and 35.6% of all private sector sales, which reach roughly $13.3 trillion.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Small businesses going big” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Small businesses going big on technology<\/h3>\n
A U.S. Chamber of Commerce Technology Engagement Center study<\/a> shows that small businesses are leaning on retail technology more than ever to compete and succeed.
\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”93% use at least one technology platform” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 93% use at least one technology platform” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”86% of small business owners say technology helped their business survive the pandemic” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 86% of small business owners” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”83% plan to increase their use of technology platforms” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 83% plan to increase ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”77% of SMB owners say their businesses would struggle to survive without retail technology” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 77% of SMB owners ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tech helps” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\nTech helps small business grow, small towns prosper<\/h3>\n![\"Jim](\"https:\/\/paladinpointofsale.com\/retailscience\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/12\/JimByrum600-300x205.png\")
Jim Byrum uses Paladin technology to run his seven hardware stores in small towns across Central Michigan.<\/p><\/div>\n
Jim Byrum had a career that included corporate sales and representation of agricultural interests in private, state and federal agencies before he turned into a full-time small business owner by opening a small hardware store in Leslie, Michigan. The store was 4,000 square feet and within a few years it was so successful it had doubled in size and become an important resource for the tiny town.<\/p>\n
Similar stories followed for Jim in other Central Michigan communities \u2013 Holt, Howell, Stockbridge, Pinckney, Charlotte and Gregory. Most were small towns that had lost their hardware stores or were on the verge of losing them, Jim says.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the last 20, 30 years there\u2019s been a real loss of small-town hardware stores, and the lack of modern technology, I think, is one of the reasons. The demand for technology by retailers for a number of reasons, and the need for speed at the point of sale has changed so much over the past few years, I don\u2019t know how stores operate without it,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
Jim runs all his stores on technology from Paladin Data Corporation. Paladin Point of Sale handles all his customer service and inventory management. Because the stores are spread out across roughly 80 miles of Central Michigan, he uses Paladin Mobile applications to remotely keep track of them. They each order many of their own products, but Jim says they combine orders on certain shared products.<\/p>\n
![\"Byrum](\"https:\/\/paladinpointofsale.com\/retailscience\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/06\/ByrumAceHardwareStorefront-Pinckney600x386-300x193.jpg\")
Byrum Ace Hardware in Pinckney, Michigan<\/p><\/div>\n
\u201cThe store managers have a lot of autonomy. They know their communities. They all live in the towns where they work. We have found that each of the stores has its own quirks regarding product and customer services.\u00a0 We do streamline ordering a lot, though,\u201d he explains, adding that Paladin keeps his stores operating as efficiently and profitably as possible. \u201cMaintaining current retail prices and product costs has been absolutely critical the past few years. The Paladin systems are critical tools to help us accomplish this and maintain our margins and profitability.\u201d<\/p>\n
Jim says technology has allowed all his stores to thrive. Four of them \u2013 Leslie, Charlotte, Howell and Pinkney \u2013 earned 2022 Pinnacle Awards from Ace, while two others were honored as Platinum stores.<\/p>\n
Regional studies abound on how supporting small businesses stimulates communities, and America\u2019s heartland is at the heart of many. The South Dakota Rural Enterprise found that a dollar spent at an independent retailer is normally re-spent up to 16 times before it leaves the community.<\/p>\n
Another study done by the Indiana Main Street Program shows that only six cents of a dollar spent at a big box store remains in its community. And research done by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that every $100 spent at local retailers generates $45 of secondary spending, while a similar investment in a chain store garners just $14.<\/p>\n
\u201cI like small towns. Two of the towns \u2013 Charlotte and Holt \u2013 are a little larger, but most are essentially neighborhood stores,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
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Technology is big for small-town startup<\/h3>\n![\"Image](\"https:\/\/paladinpointofsale.com\/retailscience\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/BuffaloBarnSm.jpg\")
Sam Olson’s enterprise grew from a single hardware store and lumberyard to include separate ranch supply, fuel and propane businesses.<\/p><\/div>\n
Sam Olson was still at Black Hills State University when he and his parents bought the local hardware store in his hometown of Buffalo, South Dakota. He had to move the store from the Dark Ages into the 21st<\/sup> century.<\/p>\nThe previous owner operated with a cash register, pen and paper. So, his first order of business was to update the store\u2019s operating system. He says he studied between \u201c10 and 15\u201d retail systems before choosing Paladin Point of Sale.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy goal was to make sure we had a system that would take us into the future.\u202fWe had to\u202fhave\u202fthe technology to help us succeed. You don\u2019t change systems every year, so we\u202fmade\u202fsure we made the right decision. Paladin just gives us the data we need,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
To say it was a success is an understatement.\u202fBuffalo Hardware\u2019s sales tripled in Sam\u2019s first year as owner\u202fand in 2019 the store notched over\u202f$2 million in sales.<\/p>\n
That success led to him opening or acquiring three other businesses \u2013 Buffalo Ranch Supply, Olson Propane and Olson Fuels \u2013 all of which run on Paladin technology. It also earned Sam recognition from the North American Hardware and Paint Association as one of its Young Retailers of the Year in 2020.<\/p>\n
His businesses are a huge part of the economy of Buffalo, a town of 350 hardy souls in the northwest corner of the state.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you live in a rural community like this you can\u2019t afford to lose a business. We felt we had to step up and do something to keep our small town alive,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
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Simplicity makes technology work for small businesses<\/h3>\n
All the technology in the world won\u2019t help a small business if it\u2019s not usable. That\u2019s why a user-friendly point of sale is key. It must be easy to learn and use for both store associates and customers to benefit.<\/p>\n
\u201cA system with a user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone, even those apprehensive about using a computer, to become productive after minimal training,\u201d says Dan Nesmith, founder and president of Paladin Data Corporation, a leading provider of retail technology solutions.<\/p>\n
Sam attributes some of his store\u2019s success to how easy it was to implement Paladin and teach it to his\u202femployees. The\u202fsystem\u2019s simplicity and flexibility won Sam and his\u202femployees over.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe had to overcome an employee fear level\u202f\u2013 we had some with no computer skills at all.\u202fWith the touchscreens, having the simplicity of Paladin and the ability to point and click \u2013 it seems just about anybody can run it, which was big,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
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Survival of the fittest<\/h3>\n
Optimistic retailers believe their businesses can offer services that customers can\u2019t find anywhere else. In the AIB survey,\u00a0independent retailers cite four characteristics of their businesses they see as an advantage over big-box stores and e-commerce:<\/p>\n
\n- Service: <\/strong><\/span>Independent retailers provide better and more personalized customer service than chain stores.<\/li>\n
- Community: <\/strong><\/span>Independent merchants are more intimately involved in their communities. Online retailers don\u2019t even factor here.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge: <\/strong><\/span>Independent merchants can offer first-hand experience and advice.<\/li>\n
- Experience: <\/strong><\/span>Local businesses provide more unique and intimate shopping experiences than cookie-cutter chain stores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Independent merchants also see opportunities in the evolution of the retail industry. Large store closures such as Kmart, Sears, Macy\u2019s and others have left voids in neighborhood markets that many local merchants are seeking to fill.<\/p>\n
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Independent merchants build character<\/h3>\n
There are many ways local, independent businesses help communities beyond recycling cash:<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent businesses give communities their unique character.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Independent businesses give” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners are an integral part of the communities in which they live and work and thus tend to recognize how their decisions may impact their neighbors.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Indy business owners” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners help to build a sense of community by providing local jobs, creating entrepreneurship, and sparking innovation and business competition.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Independent business owners help ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”That\u2019s another reason” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
That\u2019s another reason why independent \u201cbuy local\u201d campaigns are a good idea. According to the American Independent Business Alliances (AMIBA), businesses in communities with long-term \u201cbuy local and independent campaigns\u201d reported average revenue growth of 7.4%. That\u2019s nearly twice as much as independent businesses without such support.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Campaign trail” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Campaign trail<\/h3>\n
Many chambers of commerce and community-specific small business associations offer campaigns to support small businesses. There are many resources available to independent business owners interested in starting such campaigns.<\/p>\n
AMIBA<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>\u2013 American Independent Business Alliance offers a guide to a campaign and a roundup of seasonal campaigns.<\/p>\nAssociation of Chamber of Commerce Executives<\/a><\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 offers information and resources on \u201cbuy local\u201d initiatives.<\/p>\n
\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”93% use at least one technology platform” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 93% use at least one technology platform” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”86% of small business owners say technology helped their business survive the pandemic” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 86% of small business owners” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”83% plan to increase their use of technology platforms” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 83% plan to increase ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”77% of SMB owners say their businesses would struggle to survive without retail technology” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – 77% of SMB owners ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”Tech helps” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Tech helps small business grow, small towns prosper<\/h3>\nJim Byrum uses Paladin technology to run his seven hardware stores in small towns across Central Michigan.<\/p><\/div>\n
Jim Byrum had a career that included corporate sales and representation of agricultural interests in private, state and federal agencies before he turned into a full-time small business owner by opening a small hardware store in Leslie, Michigan. The store was 4,000 square feet and within a few years it was so successful it had doubled in size and become an important resource for the tiny town.<\/p>\n
Similar stories followed for Jim in other Central Michigan communities \u2013 Holt, Howell, Stockbridge, Pinckney, Charlotte and Gregory. Most were small towns that had lost their hardware stores or were on the verge of losing them, Jim says.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the last 20, 30 years there\u2019s been a real loss of small-town hardware stores, and the lack of modern technology, I think, is one of the reasons. The demand for technology by retailers for a number of reasons, and the need for speed at the point of sale has changed so much over the past few years, I don\u2019t know how stores operate without it,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
Jim runs all his stores on technology from Paladin Data Corporation. Paladin Point of Sale handles all his customer service and inventory management. Because the stores are spread out across roughly 80 miles of Central Michigan, he uses Paladin Mobile applications to remotely keep track of them. They each order many of their own products, but Jim says they combine orders on certain shared products.<\/p>\n
Byrum Ace Hardware in Pinckney, Michigan<\/p><\/div>\n
\u201cThe store managers have a lot of autonomy. They know their communities. They all live in the towns where they work. We have found that each of the stores has its own quirks regarding product and customer services.\u00a0 We do streamline ordering a lot, though,\u201d he explains, adding that Paladin keeps his stores operating as efficiently and profitably as possible. \u201cMaintaining current retail prices and product costs has been absolutely critical the past few years. The Paladin systems are critical tools to help us accomplish this and maintain our margins and profitability.\u201d<\/p>\n
Jim says technology has allowed all his stores to thrive. Four of them \u2013 Leslie, Charlotte, Howell and Pinkney \u2013 earned 2022 Pinnacle Awards from Ace, while two others were honored as Platinum stores.<\/p>\n
Regional studies abound on how supporting small businesses stimulates communities, and America\u2019s heartland is at the heart of many. The South Dakota Rural Enterprise found that a dollar spent at an independent retailer is normally re-spent up to 16 times before it leaves the community.<\/p>\n
Another study done by the Indiana Main Street Program shows that only six cents of a dollar spent at a big box store remains in its community. And research done by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that every $100 spent at local retailers generates $45 of secondary spending, while a similar investment in a chain store garners just $14.<\/p>\n
\u201cI like small towns. Two of the towns \u2013 Charlotte and Holt \u2013 are a little larger, but most are essentially neighborhood stores,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Technology is big” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Technology is big for small-town startup<\/h3>\nSam Olson’s enterprise grew from a single hardware store and lumberyard to include separate ranch supply, fuel and propane businesses.<\/p><\/div>\n
Sam Olson was still at Black Hills State University when he and his parents bought the local hardware store in his hometown of Buffalo, South Dakota. He had to move the store from the Dark Ages into the 21st<\/sup> century.<\/p>\nThe previous owner operated with a cash register, pen and paper. So, his first order of business was to update the store\u2019s operating system. He says he studied between \u201c10 and 15\u201d retail systems before choosing Paladin Point of Sale.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy goal was to make sure we had a system that would take us into the future.\u202fWe had to\u202fhave\u202fthe technology to help us succeed. You don\u2019t change systems every year, so we\u202fmade\u202fsure we made the right decision. Paladin just gives us the data we need,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
To say it was a success is an understatement.\u202fBuffalo Hardware\u2019s sales tripled in Sam\u2019s first year as owner\u202fand in 2019 the store notched over\u202f$2 million in sales.<\/p>\n
That success led to him opening or acquiring three other businesses \u2013 Buffalo Ranch Supply, Olson Propane and Olson Fuels \u2013 all of which run on Paladin technology. It also earned Sam recognition from the North American Hardware and Paint Association as one of its Young Retailers of the Year in 2020.<\/p>\n
His businesses are a huge part of the economy of Buffalo, a town of 350 hardy souls in the northwest corner of the state.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you live in a rural community like this you can\u2019t afford to lose a business. We felt we had to step up and do something to keep our small town alive,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
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Simplicity makes technology work for small businesses<\/h3>\n
All the technology in the world won\u2019t help a small business if it\u2019s not usable. That\u2019s why a user-friendly point of sale is key. It must be easy to learn and use for both store associates and customers to benefit.<\/p>\n
\u201cA system with a user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone, even those apprehensive about using a computer, to become productive after minimal training,\u201d says Dan Nesmith, founder and president of Paladin Data Corporation, a leading provider of retail technology solutions.<\/p>\n
Sam attributes some of his store\u2019s success to how easy it was to implement Paladin and teach it to his\u202femployees. The\u202fsystem\u2019s simplicity and flexibility won Sam and his\u202femployees over.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe had to overcome an employee fear level\u202f\u2013 we had some with no computer skills at all.\u202fWith the touchscreens, having the simplicity of Paladin and the ability to point and click \u2013 it seems just about anybody can run it, which was big,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
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Survival of the fittest<\/h3>\n
Optimistic retailers believe their businesses can offer services that customers can\u2019t find anywhere else. In the AIB survey,\u00a0independent retailers cite four characteristics of their businesses they see as an advantage over big-box stores and e-commerce:<\/p>\n
\n- Service: <\/strong><\/span>Independent retailers provide better and more personalized customer service than chain stores.<\/li>\n
- Community: <\/strong><\/span>Independent merchants are more intimately involved in their communities. Online retailers don\u2019t even factor here.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge: <\/strong><\/span>Independent merchants can offer first-hand experience and advice.<\/li>\n
- Experience: <\/strong><\/span>Local businesses provide more unique and intimate shopping experiences than cookie-cutter chain stores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Independent merchants also see opportunities in the evolution of the retail industry. Large store closures such as Kmart, Sears, Macy\u2019s and others have left voids in neighborhood markets that many local merchants are seeking to fill.<\/p>\n
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Independent merchants build character<\/h3>\n
There are many ways local, independent businesses help communities beyond recycling cash:<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent businesses give communities their unique character.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Independent businesses give” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners are an integral part of the communities in which they live and work and thus tend to recognize how their decisions may impact their neighbors.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Indy business owners” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners help to build a sense of community by providing local jobs, creating entrepreneurship, and sparking innovation and business competition.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Independent business owners help ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”That\u2019s another reason” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
That\u2019s another reason why independent \u201cbuy local\u201d campaigns are a good idea. According to the American Independent Business Alliances (AMIBA), businesses in communities with long-term \u201cbuy local and independent campaigns\u201d reported average revenue growth of 7.4%. That\u2019s nearly twice as much as independent businesses without such support.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Campaign trail” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Campaign trail<\/h3>\n
Many chambers of commerce and community-specific small business associations offer campaigns to support small businesses. There are many resources available to independent business owners interested in starting such campaigns.<\/p>\n
AMIBA<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>\u2013 American Independent Business Alliance offers a guide to a campaign and a roundup of seasonal campaigns.<\/p>\nAssociation of Chamber of Commerce Executives<\/a><\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 offers information and resources on \u201cbuy local\u201d initiatives.<\/p>\n
Jim Byrum uses Paladin technology to run his seven hardware stores in small towns across Central Michigan.<\/p><\/div>\n
Jim Byrum had a career that included corporate sales and representation of agricultural interests in private, state and federal agencies before he turned into a full-time small business owner by opening a small hardware store in Leslie, Michigan. The store was 4,000 square feet and within a few years it was so successful it had doubled in size and become an important resource for the tiny town.<\/p>\n
Similar stories followed for Jim in other Central Michigan communities \u2013 Holt, Howell, Stockbridge, Pinckney, Charlotte and Gregory. Most were small towns that had lost their hardware stores or were on the verge of losing them, Jim says.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the last 20, 30 years there\u2019s been a real loss of small-town hardware stores, and the lack of modern technology, I think, is one of the reasons. The demand for technology by retailers for a number of reasons, and the need for speed at the point of sale has changed so much over the past few years, I don\u2019t know how stores operate without it,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
Jim runs all his stores on technology from Paladin Data Corporation. Paladin Point of Sale handles all his customer service and inventory management. Because the stores are spread out across roughly 80 miles of Central Michigan, he uses Paladin Mobile applications to remotely keep track of them. They each order many of their own products, but Jim says they combine orders on certain shared products.<\/p>\n
Byrum Ace Hardware in Pinckney, Michigan<\/p><\/div>\n
\u201cThe store managers have a lot of autonomy. They know their communities. They all live in the towns where they work. We have found that each of the stores has its own quirks regarding product and customer services.\u00a0 We do streamline ordering a lot, though,\u201d he explains, adding that Paladin keeps his stores operating as efficiently and profitably as possible. \u201cMaintaining current retail prices and product costs has been absolutely critical the past few years. The Paladin systems are critical tools to help us accomplish this and maintain our margins and profitability.\u201d<\/p>\n
Jim says technology has allowed all his stores to thrive. Four of them \u2013 Leslie, Charlotte, Howell and Pinkney \u2013 earned 2022 Pinnacle Awards from Ace, while two others were honored as Platinum stores.<\/p>\n
Regional studies abound on how supporting small businesses stimulates communities, and America\u2019s heartland is at the heart of many. The South Dakota Rural Enterprise found that a dollar spent at an independent retailer is normally re-spent up to 16 times before it leaves the community.<\/p>\n
Another study done by the Indiana Main Street Program shows that only six cents of a dollar spent at a big box store remains in its community. And research done by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that every $100 spent at local retailers generates $45 of secondary spending, while a similar investment in a chain store garners just $14.<\/p>\n
\u201cI like small towns. Two of the towns \u2013 Charlotte and Holt \u2013 are a little larger, but most are essentially neighborhood stores,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Technology is big” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Technology is big for small-town startup<\/h3>\nSam Olson’s enterprise grew from a single hardware store and lumberyard to include separate ranch supply, fuel and propane businesses.<\/p><\/div>\n
Sam Olson was still at Black Hills State University when he and his parents bought the local hardware store in his hometown of Buffalo, South Dakota. He had to move the store from the Dark Ages into the 21st<\/sup> century.<\/p>\nThe previous owner operated with a cash register, pen and paper. So, his first order of business was to update the store\u2019s operating system. He says he studied between \u201c10 and 15\u201d retail systems before choosing Paladin Point of Sale.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy goal was to make sure we had a system that would take us into the future.\u202fWe had to\u202fhave\u202fthe technology to help us succeed. You don\u2019t change systems every year, so we\u202fmade\u202fsure we made the right decision. Paladin just gives us the data we need,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
To say it was a success is an understatement.\u202fBuffalo Hardware\u2019s sales tripled in Sam\u2019s first year as owner\u202fand in 2019 the store notched over\u202f$2 million in sales.<\/p>\n
That success led to him opening or acquiring three other businesses \u2013 Buffalo Ranch Supply, Olson Propane and Olson Fuels \u2013 all of which run on Paladin technology. It also earned Sam recognition from the North American Hardware and Paint Association as one of its Young Retailers of the Year in 2020.<\/p>\n
His businesses are a huge part of the economy of Buffalo, a town of 350 hardy souls in the northwest corner of the state.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you live in a rural community like this you can\u2019t afford to lose a business. We felt we had to step up and do something to keep our small town alive,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Simplicity makes” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Simplicity makes technology work for small businesses<\/h3>\n
All the technology in the world won\u2019t help a small business if it\u2019s not usable. That\u2019s why a user-friendly point of sale is key. It must be easy to learn and use for both store associates and customers to benefit.<\/p>\n
\u201cA system with a user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone, even those apprehensive about using a computer, to become productive after minimal training,\u201d says Dan Nesmith, founder and president of Paladin Data Corporation, a leading provider of retail technology solutions.<\/p>\n
Sam attributes some of his store\u2019s success to how easy it was to implement Paladin and teach it to his\u202femployees. The\u202fsystem\u2019s simplicity and flexibility won Sam and his\u202femployees over.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe had to overcome an employee fear level\u202f\u2013 we had some with no computer skills at all.\u202fWith the touchscreens, having the simplicity of Paladin and the ability to point and click \u2013 it seems just about anybody can run it, which was big,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n
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Survival of the fittest<\/h3>\n
Optimistic retailers believe their businesses can offer services that customers can\u2019t find anywhere else. In the AIB survey,\u00a0independent retailers cite four characteristics of their businesses they see as an advantage over big-box stores and e-commerce:<\/p>\n
\n- Service: <\/strong><\/span>Independent retailers provide better and more personalized customer service than chain stores.<\/li>\n
- Community: <\/strong><\/span>Independent merchants are more intimately involved in their communities. Online retailers don\u2019t even factor here.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge: <\/strong><\/span>Independent merchants can offer first-hand experience and advice.<\/li>\n
- Experience: <\/strong><\/span>Local businesses provide more unique and intimate shopping experiences than cookie-cutter chain stores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Independent merchants also see opportunities in the evolution of the retail industry. Large store closures such as Kmart, Sears, Macy\u2019s and others have left voids in neighborhood markets that many local merchants are seeking to fill.<\/p>\n
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Independent merchants build character<\/h3>\n
There are many ways local, independent businesses help communities beyond recycling cash:<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent businesses give communities their unique character.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Independent businesses give” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners are an integral part of the communities in which they live and work and thus tend to recognize how their decisions may impact their neighbors.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Indy business owners” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners help to build a sense of community by providing local jobs, creating entrepreneurship, and sparking innovation and business competition.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Independent business owners help ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”That\u2019s another reason” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
That\u2019s another reason why independent \u201cbuy local\u201d campaigns are a good idea. According to the American Independent Business Alliances (AMIBA), businesses in communities with long-term \u201cbuy local and independent campaigns\u201d reported average revenue growth of 7.4%. That\u2019s nearly twice as much as independent businesses without such support.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Campaign trail” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Campaign trail<\/h3>\n
Many chambers of commerce and community-specific small business associations offer campaigns to support small businesses. There are many resources available to independent business owners interested in starting such campaigns.<\/p>\n
AMIBA<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>\u2013 American Independent Business Alliance offers a guide to a campaign and a roundup of seasonal campaigns.<\/p>\nAssociation of Chamber of Commerce Executives<\/a><\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 offers information and resources on \u201cbuy local\u201d initiatives.<\/p>\n
Sam Olson’s enterprise grew from a single hardware store and lumberyard to include separate ranch supply, fuel and propane businesses.<\/p><\/div>\n
Sam Olson was still at Black Hills State University when he and his parents bought the local hardware store in his hometown of Buffalo, South Dakota. He had to move the store from the Dark Ages into the 21st<\/sup> century.<\/p>\n The previous owner operated with a cash register, pen and paper. So, his first order of business was to update the store\u2019s operating system. He says he studied between \u201c10 and 15\u201d retail systems before choosing Paladin Point of Sale.<\/p>\n \u201cMy goal was to make sure we had a system that would take us into the future.\u202fWe had to\u202fhave\u202fthe technology to help us succeed. You don\u2019t change systems every year, so we\u202fmade\u202fsure we made the right decision. Paladin just gives us the data we need,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n To say it was a success is an understatement.\u202fBuffalo Hardware\u2019s sales tripled in Sam\u2019s first year as owner\u202fand in 2019 the store notched over\u202f$2 million in sales.<\/p>\n That success led to him opening or acquiring three other businesses \u2013 Buffalo Ranch Supply, Olson Propane and Olson Fuels \u2013 all of which run on Paladin technology. It also earned Sam recognition from the North American Hardware and Paint Association as one of its Young Retailers of the Year in 2020.<\/p>\n His businesses are a huge part of the economy of Buffalo, a town of 350 hardy souls in the northwest corner of the state.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen you live in a rural community like this you can\u2019t afford to lose a business. We felt we had to step up and do something to keep our small town alive,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Simplicity makes” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n All the technology in the world won\u2019t help a small business if it\u2019s not usable. That\u2019s why a user-friendly point of sale is key. It must be easy to learn and use for both store associates and customers to benefit.<\/p>\n \u201cA system with a user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone, even those apprehensive about using a computer, to become productive after minimal training,\u201d says Dan Nesmith, founder and president of Paladin Data Corporation, a leading provider of retail technology solutions.<\/p>\n Sam attributes some of his store\u2019s success to how easy it was to implement Paladin and teach it to his\u202femployees. The\u202fsystem\u2019s simplicity and flexibility won Sam and his\u202femployees over.<\/p>\n \u201cWe had to overcome an employee fear level\u202f\u2013 we had some with no computer skills at all.\u202fWith the touchscreens, having the simplicity of Paladin and the ability to point and click \u2013 it seems just about anybody can run it, which was big,\u201d he explains.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Survival” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Optimistic retailers believe their businesses can offer services that customers can\u2019t find anywhere else. In the AIB survey,\u00a0independent retailers cite four characteristics of their businesses they see as an advantage over big-box stores and e-commerce:<\/p>\n Independent merchants also see opportunities in the evolution of the retail industry. Large store closures such as Kmart, Sears, Macy\u2019s and others have left voids in neighborhood markets that many local merchants are seeking to fill.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Independent merchants” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n There are many ways local, independent businesses help communities beyond recycling cash:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent businesses give communities their unique character.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Independent businesses give” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners are an integral part of the communities in which they live and work and thus tend to recognize how their decisions may impact their neighbors.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Blurb – Indy business owners” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_blurb title=”Independent business owners help to build a sense of community by providing local jobs, creating entrepreneurship, and sparking innovation and business competition.” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||fa||900″ icon_color=”#cc6633″ icon_placement=”left” admin_label=”Independent business owners help ” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” animation_style=”slide” animation_delay=”550ms” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_text admin_label=”That\u2019s another reason” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n That\u2019s another reason why independent \u201cbuy local\u201d campaigns are a good idea. According to the American Independent Business Alliances (AMIBA), businesses in communities with long-term \u201cbuy local and independent campaigns\u201d reported average revenue growth of 7.4%. That\u2019s nearly twice as much as independent businesses without such support.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Campaign trail” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″ z_index_tablet=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” use_border_color=”off” border_color=”#ffffff” border_style=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Many chambers of commerce and community-specific small business associations offer campaigns to support small businesses. There are many resources available to independent business owners interested in starting such campaigns.<\/p>\n AMIBA<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>\u2013 American Independent Business Alliance offers a guide to a campaign and a roundup of seasonal campaigns.<\/p>\n Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives<\/a><\/span>\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 offers information and resources on \u201cbuy local\u201d initiatives.<\/p>\nSimplicity makes technology work for small businesses<\/h3>\n
Survival of the fittest<\/h3>\n
\n
Independent merchants build character<\/h3>\n
Campaign trail<\/h3>\n