With the holidays approaching, the Fort Stockton Economic Development Corporation and the Fort Stockton Chamber of Commerce remind everyone about the wide selection of products and services that are available right here in Fort Stockton, and about the impact shopping local has on our community.

You might not realize it, but every time you dine out at your favorite local restaurant, use local auto or home repair services, buy a gift from the local florist, or update your wardrobe from your favorite small boutique, you’re shopping small and making a difference.

According to the Small Business Economic Impact Study by American Express, an average of two-thirds of every dollar spent at small businesses in the U.S. stays in the local community, and every dollar spent at small businesses creates an additional 50 cents in local business activity as a result of employee spending and businesses purchasing local goods and services.

Every taxable dollar spent in Fort Stockton benefits important city provided services like police and fire, senior services, street maintenance, street lights and city parks and recreation. Two percent of all sales tax generated in Fort Stockton stays in Fort Stockton. That means every time you shop in Fort Stockton, two cents of every dollar stays right here. Spending locally also strengthens the economy overall, from keeping jobs, to encouraging entrepreneurship. When people live, pay taxes, and send their kids to school where they have their business, they are more invested in the well-being of their community in every way. By using these local businesses, you are creating a more self-sufficient, prosperous place to live.

Pete knows he supports our economy by shopping at local stores. Be like Pete. Keep it local.