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The True Cost of Mega Retailers: The Fight for America's Independent Businesses

Spencer Powell

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Published in Big Box Swindle: The True Cost Of Mega Retailers And The Fight For America S Independent Businesses

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The rise of mega retailers has had a profound impact on the American retail landscape. These massive corporations, with their immense buying power and economies of scale, have forced many small, independent businesses to close their doors. While mega retailers often tout their low prices and convenience, the true cost of their dominance is much more profound.

Big-Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America's Independent Businesses

by Stacy Mitchell

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3567 KB
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Print length	:	337 pages

Economic Impact

The decline of independent businesses has had a significant economic impact on communities across the country. Small businesses are the backbone of the local economy, creating jobs, generating tax revenue, and supporting other local businesses. When a small business closes, it is not just the owner who is affected; it is also the entire community.

A study by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance found that for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remains in the community. In contrast, only $43 of every $100 spent at a chain store remains in the community.

The loss of independent businesses can also lead to increased unemployment. A study by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that a 10% increase in the number of big-box stores in a county is associated with a 1% decrease in employment.

Social Impact

The decline of independent businesses has also had a negative social impact. Small businesses are often the heart of their communities, providing a sense of place and belonging. They are also more likely to be involved in local charities and events.

When a small business closes, it leaves a hole in the fabric of the community. The loss of local businesses can lead to a decline in social cohesion, a sense of community, and a decrease in civic engagement.

Environmental Impact

The rise of mega retailers has also had a negative environmental impact. Mega retailers often rely on unsustainable practices, such as using excessive packaging and shipping products long distances. They also tend to have a larger carbon footprint than small businesses.

A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that mega retailers are responsible for 15% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. This is more than the emissions from all of the world's passenger cars combined.

The Fight for Independent Businesses

The fight for independent businesses is not an easy one. Mega retailers have a lot of power, and they are not going anywhere anytime soon. However, there are things that we can do to support independent businesses and help them survive and thrive.

Here are a few things that you can do:

Shop at local businesses whenever possible.
Support local businesses by donating to their fundraisers or volunteering your time.
Spread the word about the importance of independent businesses.
Advocate for policies that support small businesses.

The fight for independent businesses is a fight for the heart of our communities. It is a fight for a more just and sustainable economy. It is a fight for a better future.

Big-Box Swindle: The True Cost of Mega-Retailers and the Fight for America's Independent Businesses

by Stacy Mitchell

4.4 out of 5