The Shop Local Initiative: Why Shop Local?

This blog is the first of an ongoing series of featured posts on Shop Local initiatives around the country. The objective of this series to outline the benefits and challenges of current Shop Local efforts as we consider alternatives to expand successful, but limited, initiatives such as Shop Small Saturday. Our first post, Why Shop Local, serves as a primer for our future posts by first outlining the economic impact of local shopping.

Shopping is intrinsically local. eMarketer estimates that a relatively small portion of retail sales – roughly 7.1% in 2015 – will take place online. So when people think of Shop Local they usually think about shopping at any nearby store and buying products within the city itself.

Shop Local, however, is more than that. Shop Local is about supporting the small businesses that make up the majority of economic activity within a city. According to the Andersonville Study of Retail economics, small businesses generate almost 70% of local economic activity. Without spending at these businesses, the local economy would fall. The disadvantages for the city are depicted in the graphic below.

Source: Localfirst.com

The majority of money spent at small businesses flows back into the local community. According to the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA), every dollar spent at a local independent merchant generates 3.5 times as much wealth in the local economy as a dollar spent at a chain-owned business. The reason behind this is that as local businesses become more successful they create more jobs within the community in the form of suppliers, distributers, and more.

There are more than 28.2 million businesses operating in the United States, according to a 2014 article in Forbes Magazine. Sixty-three percent of the new jobs created between 1993 and 2013 were from small businesses. Small businesses have a great impact on the number of jobs created within a local community. Some may say that larger and more established stores can create more jobs in an instant, however, consequently they can also lay off a large amount of workers at a single notice without any consideration. Local stores on the other hand are much more considerate as they are run by locals from the community.

In summary, local businesses provide a large amount of economical benefit to the society and we should work hard to support them in every way. They create and sustain many jobs for the community while also giving back in many, many ways.  Get out there and shop local.

Sources:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/moneybuilder/2011/12/13/shopping-local-vs-shopping-locally/

http://www.forbes.com/sites/nicoleleinbachreyhle/2014/09/02/why-you-need-to-support-small-businesses/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mike-salguero/why-buying-local-is-worth_b_4310520.html

http://www.independentwestand.org/learn-more/about/faqs/

#shoplocal #pixiboard

About the Authors

Sean Brown is the Founder of Pixiboard and an advocate for making local commerce safe, easy and seamless for buyers and sellers alike.

Barisa Abidin is a marketing intern at Pixiboard and a senior at University of San Francisco.

If You’re Reading This, You Should Probably Call Your Mom

Last month I was at Jack White’s set at Coachella. It is an understatement to say that I was in a euphoric state at the time, considering that I am a lover of his music combined with the fact that he was absolutely killing it. But my mood switched from being euphoric to being a tiny bit emotional. In between sets, he said something that really made an impact on me. He encouraged the crowd to contact their parents.

“They miss you and they are probably worried about you. Just give them a call."

It hit the crowd like a bomb. Everyone could relate to what he just said.

We all get caught up with our own individual lives, in this individualistic society. It is often too easy to forget that we actually have parents that have gotten us to where we are today. And still a lot of us, including me, do not find the time to contact them as much as they would probably want us to.

I had not spoken to my mom in a while. She lives on the other side of the world. I know that it is easy with modern technology to send her a message or give her a quick phone call. But I often find excuses for myself for not contacting her as much.

For instance, the 9 hour time difference is very annoying.  She would already a sleep when I want to contact her. Or, I do not want to bother her when she is at work. I feel bad about my constant excuses. I work hard to change my habits. That is why I am thankful for days like her birthday or Mother's Day - they remind me to do something special for her. Something which she strongly deserves.

I used to think that Mother's Day was a lame commercial holiday, created by corporate companies as an excuse to make us spend more money. I still think it is, but it does give us a very good reason to reach out to our moms, give her a phone call, send her a gift, take her out for dinner, and make her feel loved.  Thanks to Mother's Day, we can put a smile on her face every year and show her the love she needs. Now I can truly see the positive side of this holiday. Thanks for that, corporate America!

 

This year I want to send my mom a really nice gift and I encourage everyone reading this to do the same (if you weren't already planning it). It can be a difficult task to find a good gift for mom with a low budget. Luckily we do have some nice things on Pixiboard that she might love!

I know my mom would love all the stuff that the Apron Guy sells. He has a great selection of household items. I know this sounds like a generalization, but to be honest, moms just love that kind of stuff (at least mine does).  It is a mystery how excited she can get over a bunch of kitchen towels, but hey what works works. Check out a few of his pieces, like this $6 pear kitchen towel , or this matching $5 shopping bag, or this cute cupcake apron that mom will rock, or even these awesome waffle drying towels that are super handy to put washed dishes on.

 

 

Is your mom not the house'y type? Maybe she would like something to make her feel pretty. These Moroccan slippers just got posted on the board and I honestly love them. They look super comfy as well. Or maybe she would adore this Moroccan vase, which is a bit on the pricier side, but at least it is something that will last forever.

So if you haven't found a perfect gift for mom yet, check out Pixiboard. There are many local offerings from small businesses in the Bay Area.  From most, you can order online and pick-up at the store.

Of course, if it is too late to get that perfect gift, there is always the phone call.  Pick up the phone, call your mom, and tell her how you feel.

Happy Mother's Day, mom!

#mothersday #pixiboard #shoplocal



College Student Series: Post-Midterm De-Stressing

For my college students out there, yup – it’s that time of the year again: the oh-so-dreaded MIDTERMS SEASON. It doesn’t matter how prepared you thought you were; one by one, these midterms are rearing their ugly heads and reminding us why we really shouldn’t have waited until the night before to start studying.

And, if you’re anything like me, you’re a HUGE stress-er. Whether it’s the big things or the little things – you stress, stress, STRESS. So one test score might feel like the end of the world. But before you start having thoughts of dropping out or questioning your life purpose, take a step back and BREATHE.

One failed midterm will NOT determine the rest of your life. It may seem to have an enormous impact right now, but that feeling will pass. However, if you’re still hung up over how poorly your last midterm went, or even just exhausted from all of the studying, here are a few things that help ME (and hopefully you, too) get through these stress-filled days and put me back in top condition for when the next round of midterms come.

 

1) TALK TO A FRIEND

Right after I take a midterm, I always want to talk to a close friend – whether it’s to whine about my midterm or just to take my mind off of the horrible exam. Sometimes, it even helps to talk to a friend who took the same midterm, if just to confirm your thoughts of how hard and evil the test was, because chances are, you’re not the only one who found it really difficult.

At worst, when you get that less than satisfactory grade back, you’ll have a buddy to keep you company and maybe buy you food to cheer you up.

2) TAKE A DAY OFF AND HAVE SOME QUALITY “YOU” TIME

Sometimes the best feeling that comes from finishing a midterm is just simply knowing you’re done. And since you’re done, you should fully relax and focus all of your energy on you. You know how hard you worked to study for your midterm and so, regardless of the result, take some time to heal and recover.

I’m not saying you should skip class, but find a day where you’re less busy and do things you enjoy! Whether it’s staying in bed all day and getting comfy with your Netflix or taking a nice walk around the neighborhood – just dedicate a day to yourself. This will give you time to forget about the struggles of studying and get you back in shape for any obstacles heading your way.

3) DIVE INTO THAT RETAIL THERAPY

As much as I hate to admit it, when midterms get me down, I definitely turn to some good ol’ retail therapy. Usually, after a particularly bad exam, I’d find time and hop on a BART to San Francisco, where I’d spend the day (or most of it) shopping. More recently though, my schedule has been so packed that I hardly have the time for traveling and so, online shopping has become my new best friend.

Of course, I wouldn’t encourage reckless spending, but there’s no harm in doing a little shopping to cheer yourself up. In addition, there are some great alternatives to big department stores/franchises such as online marketplaces like your local student exchange groups or platforms like Pixiboard. At the moment, I’m eyeing some cute scarves (only $15!). If you’re like me – not enough time to go shop in person and you’re looking to browse through a wide assortment of things, check it out!

4) CHILLAX

My last step is pretty straightforward and simple, so let me just put it like this: EAT, SLEEP, CHILLAX! What always brightens my mood is eating some delicious food and getting a good night’s sleep, so TREAT YO’ SELF. Let your body indulge in some healthy and tasty food before sleeping the day away. Ah, I don’t know about you, but that definitely sounds like the ideal recovery from a bad exam to me. 

ALL IN ALL, midterms are something that all of us, as college students, will encounter at one point. I know I’m not alone when I say midterms are one part of the college experience that I wouldn’t mind missing out on, but since they’re pretty much here to stay, let’s all just do our best to prepare ourselves for these stressful days and to properly de-stress afterwards!


#midterms #relax #seemlessshopping #pixiboard

Confessions of a Hoarder

I like to call San Francisco the world’s tiniest big city, because it offers everything you need and more, all reachable within a 30-minute time frame. What more can you wish for in a city? However, the downside of living in this tiny big city is that due to the lack of space everyone is forced to live on top of each other.

 

Like many others in San Francisco, I live in a small, shared apartment.  Often I am torn between creating a sense of space in my room by limiting my stuff or trying to hold onto items I never use but might need later in my life. 

For example, all those shoe boxes that came with my new Vans (I buy one pair every month). When my roommate asked me why I am holding onto so many shoeboxes in my tiny, little room, I came up with numerous reasons to carefully convince her, and myself, that I really do need them. For instance, I might use them to send a package of American goodies to my mom. Or they will come in handy when I decide to start that Do It Yourself (DIY) project. Someday.

 

To support this point, I googled "Things to make using a shoebox". I was astounded by what you can create with a simple shoe box. So much so that I read them out loud to my roommate, noting rhetorically, "See? throwing them away would just be plain silly, right?"

She laughed out loud because she knows perfectly well that I am not capable of pursuing any DIY project.  And, to my sadness, I know she is right; I don't really do crafty. Yet I am still sure that it is totally worth stocking my room with shoeboxes in case I ever decide to do so. You never know. I'd like to have the option.

Now let's talk about that suitcase under my desk. I cannot put my legs on the ground while sitting behind my desk because the suitcase is in the way. However, it is the only space in my room where I can store it.

I have never used the suitcase nor I am probably ever going to use it.  It is too big to take on a weekend trip and too small to take on a longer trip. But sell it? No! It is a good suitcase. The color is cute. "I would probably regret selling it", I whisper to myself.  Even after I badly stub my little toe against it.

The worst item I am currently holding on to is an inconveniently located cat scratch pole.  It stands awkwardly and lonely-like in the hallway. I do not have a cat. Many people bump into it entering the apartment and ask me why it is there (since, I do not have a cat). I say, "I am hanging onto it. In case I ever decide to get a cat." Which I am sure I will at some point in my life.


It's just that right now I am not aloud to have pets in my apartment. But maybe, just maybe, if I ever move... The thought of a happy little kitten coming home into a house that is prepared with a comfy cat scratch pole ensures me that it is worth holding onto. Even if that means that any guest who enters the apartment will bump into it every time. And that they think of me as the crazy cat lady. Without the cat.

I am not going to hide; I see a pattern here. My room is stuffed with items that I probably do not need. And the first step in solving a problem is recognizing that there is one.  One of those future next steps is sorting and separating and parting with some of my precious either by a) selling it online or b) shipping it off to the dump.

 

I know that my hoarding habits are not as bad as those people you see on hoarding shows on TV. But living in San Francisco, this crowded small city that I love, I have to accept that there just is not enough space for items that I do not use. That is why it is time for me to let go.

One... item... at... a... time.

#fullhouse #safelocalselling #pixiboard

 

Valentine’s Day: Gift Ideas for Each Relationship Stage

Valentine’s Day, a.k.a. the day of relationship tests, is upon us! Are you ready?

Trying to find the perfect gift can be stressful, especially if you don’t know what’s appropriate for the “level” you and your S.O. (significant other) are at.

Before you have a breakdown and stress eat the fancy chocolates that were your original gift idea, read these tips below!

THE BABY COUPLE (1-3 months)

Just started seeing each other and afraid of looking too desperate or apathetic this Valentine’s Day? No worries! You and your significant other can take a fun art class together (like pottery!) or enjoy a laidback home-cooked meal, no pressure! Throw in some cheesy roses from your local florist and your relationship is well on its way!

• Check out Classes & Lessons on Pixiboard to find an art class near you!
• Check out Household Items on Pixiboard to find some nice wine glasses to accompany your dinner!
• Check out Services on Pixiboard to find your nearest florist!

 

THE FACEBOOK OFFICIAL COUPLE (3-6 months)

Your Instagram followers and Facebook friends get it - you two are in a relationship. Thankfully for you, Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to shamelessly ogle and love each other! Celebrate by getting your significant other something that shows you really know them and their likes. Give them a book you think they’d enjoy (for my fellow bookworms) or throw it back and make a mixtape.  Include a personal note complete with inside jokes and corny nicknames. They’ll love it and you for being so thoughtful!

• Check out Books on Pixiboard to find a quality book nearby to share!
• Check out Music on Pixiboard to find tunes or a way to make your own!

THE “HE/SHE IS MY PLUS ONE AT WEDDINGS” COUPLE (6-12 months)

Hey, almost a year without any (serious) casualties. Congratulations! Don’t want to be like every other couple and celebrate with the overdone dinner and a movie?  Consider going out to a sporting event, concert, or comedy show together. You’ll have a blast that’s guaranteed to be a fun memory to look back on!

• Check out Tickets on Pixiboard to find tickets for events near you!
• Check out Services on Pixiboard to find a local rental car or taxi service to travel easy! 

 

THE SUPERCOUPLE (1 year)

After the one-year mark, it’s a pretty invincible feeling. Feel free to spoil your loved one with a nice perfume or cologne set, or jewelry specifically for the ladies. They’re reliable and thoughtful gifts that all lovebirds adore! 

• Check out Apparel on Pixiboard to find some bling!
• Check out Deals on Pixiboard to find quality items for great prices near you!

THE COZY COUPLE (2+ years)

So you two are a few years in and it feels like you’ve truly found the definition of a best friend and life partner. Comfort is great, but reignite the spark and do something spontaneous and fun this Valentine’s Day! Go on a small trip, rent a cabin, check something crazy off of your bucket lists! No matter what it is, just get out there and remind yourselves how much you love each other.

• Check out Events on Pixiboard to see if any crazy events are happening near you!
• Check out Deals tab on Pixiboard to find great bargains on activities!
• Check out Travel on Pixiboard to help plan this fun trip! 

Pro-Tip: You don’t need to have a S.O. to enjoy your Valentine’s Day! Spend it with any loved one, your mother, your friend, yourself. Pixiboard has tons of stuff that won’t leave you feeling down, check it out!

#safelocalselling  #onestopshop  #seemlessshopping  #pixiboard