[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 21]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 28192]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                      THE BENEFITS OF BUYING LOCAL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 18, 2009

  Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, as the holiday shopping season 
approaches, I want to urge my colleagues to consider the benefits of 
buying local, and join me in sharing your support for strengthening our 
local economies, creating local jobs, and ensuring local, sustainable 
economic development in our communities.
  Buying locally strengthens the viability and competitiveness of local 
businesses. For every $100 in consumer spending, the total local 
economic impact is only $13 when goods and services are purchased at a 
national chain store.
  The same amount spent with a local merchant, small business, or 
retailer yields more than three times the local impact, nearly $45 for 
every $100 spent.
  Buying locally benefits small businesses, retailers and merchants who 
maintain a healthy and competitive marketplace for goods and services. 
Doing so ensures choice, diversity and competition in the marketplace 
for goods and services.
  Moreover, as a former Mayor, I know that buying locally from 
independent businesses raises the standard of living in local 
neighborhoods because they take their profits and buy products and 
services from other local businesses in the area. As a result, local 
jobs are created in the community and the unique character of our 
neighborhoods and towns is preserved.
  I want to recognize the work of Local Arizona First, a non-profit 
organization consisting of independent businesses, in making Arizona 
communities aware of the economic impact independent businesses have on 
local economies. Their mission is to promote, support, and celebrate a 
vibrant and sustainable Arizona economy by educating citizens about 
local business ownership, social equity, cultural diversity, 
environmental kinship, and collaboration.
  On Friday, November 27, 2009, Local Arizona First will be launching 
their ``Buy Local Week'' in Arizona. I applaud their work and 
wholeheartedly support their efforts in showcasing the economic 
benefits of buying locally in our community.

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