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Shopping options disappearing

Nation's dwindling shopping options further's need to shop local.

The closure of Target stores this past week was not something to laugh off, be dismissive of or apathetic about. It was devastating. It was harsh and it was something Canadian communities are unfortunately becoming used to.

Remember when Sears was everywhere? For that matter, remember when Eatons ruled the urban centre, or even the great deals we used to get at Zellers?

Analysts have pointed out that with a rapidly diminishing middle class, consumer meccas such as shopping malls, all containing an ‘anchor’ big-box store, are becoming a thing of the past. The only real growth in that kind of shopping experience has been with dollar stores, which says something about what we choose to do with our meagre disposable income.

These same analysts have also noted cities with a broad base of services and industry will eventually be able to entice these large-scale shopping centres back.

Of course, most of those analysts are talking about big cities.

A new industrial mover and shaker coming to the community would spur economic development and make it attractive to another big box store.

But there is another, not as flashy but equally beneficial way to better the area’s economic outlook.

David D. Hull, the new executive director with the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, says if the chamber, along with the city and local business, could increase the bottom line of every business by 10 per cent, the cumulative effect would be astounding.

Another tried and true way to boost the economy: shop local.

Not flashy by any means, but a loyal and local, consumer base can do wonders for a community. Every dollar spent here stays here and multiplies as it gets spent over and over.

–Kootenay Advertiser