Shopping locally saves time, money

It was not too long ago that a shopping trip meant heading down the Glenn Highway to Anchorage. And for the purposes of Christmas shopping, that could also mean less than favorable driving conditions.

Part of the growth in recent years has been the rise of a vibrant retail sector. In addition to the big-city-type retailers, there is also a bevy of specialty shops and boutiques offering a wide array of goods.

Mat-Su Valley residents have everything we need right here — from big box stores to local merchants to a raft of holiday bazaars. With just 11 shopping days remaining until Christmas, it is a comforting notion that any remaining shopping can be accomplished without navigating the Glenn Highway to Anchorage.

Local shopping saves gas and time — two things that can combine to erase comparative savings on similar items in Anchorage. Gas savings means more money for other things. Time saved on the road and fighting crowds in Anchorage means more time for family, friends and the things that matter most. And who can’t use a bit of extra time and money around the holidays?

But the benefits of shopping locally extend beyond highway safety and time saved. Shopping the Valley also strengthens the job opportunities of fellow community members who are employed locally, or who would like to be. Of perhaps greatest benefit, though, is the overall economic power of shopping the Valley.

Chamber of Commerce officials are fond of pointing out that a dollar spent locally has the potential to change hands seven times. We may not notice the actual exchange of dollars, and the effect of those exchanges may not be obvious, but they provide our region with an economic shot in the arm while helping to fund local government.

The boost that comes from local shopping benefits everyone. From a better job market to an expanded tax base, a robust business environment enriches the community and encourages more of the same.

As holiday shopping trips are planned, we hope Valley residents will weigh the direct and indirect costs of making the trip down the Glenn with the many benefits that come from shopping locally.