Hey Family! We would love to see equal energy for our Operating Small Businesses as we see when one closes. Recently we have seen another closure announcement, followed by a the comments of heartbreak, only to see the cycle continue. Read below the response by another Small Biz owner Garret Tichy about these observations (followed by an ask).
From Garrett Tichy: co-owner of Seemingly Overzealous:
“And just like that, another small business in Charlotte is gone. Pepperbox Doughnuts, a popular vegan doughnut shop, announced it will be closing its doors at the end of October 2024. First off, this news sucks. It’s heartbreaking to see a business that I personally think had a great product and brand go under. I can only hope they’re proud of their 8-year run, which outlasts most small businesses. I’m sure they fought till the bitter end.
With that, Their post announcing this news has hundreds of comments sharing how sad they are that their favorite spot is closing. Others commenting about corporate greed and astronomical rents.
The cynic in me can’t help but roll my eyes at comments like these. Those lamenting their favorite places closing. I wonder: When did they last visit? Did they ever share their “favorite” spot with friends or on social media? Did they bother to leave a glowing five-star review on Google or Yelp. As I write this, there are 296 comments on their post, mostly expressing sadness. Meanwhile, there are only 327 reviews on Google and 177 on Yelp. Again, the cynic in me sees this outpouring of grief as wasteful and self-serving. In just hours, nearly as many people expressed support for this business—albeit when it’s too late—than those who left reviews over the years.
That same energy, if directed months ago into leaving a positive review or sharing with friends, could have drummed up enthusiasm for a struggling business. It’s the same amount of effort, but with potentially game-changing results.
To those talking about them being pushed out. Did they even read the post?
Pepperbox stated, “In the past 24 months our sales have fallen drastically and, unfortunately, our only remaining location cannot sustainably stay open.” They’re clearly telling us why they’re closing: we didn’t patronize their establishment enough to keep them afloat. While I’m sure many factors contributed to this decision, the bottom line is that if we don’t buy enough doughnuts and such to cover their operating costs whatever they are.
As business owners, we need to do better at telling customers what we need and how they can support us beyond just spending money. I have no doubt someone reading this is feeling a bit of shame because they didn't leave a simple review. You have no idea how much five stars means to us—it's huge. But it's not all on you. Us simply shouting "support local" isn't enough. We're responsible for reminding you that we exist, that there's a reason to come back again and again, that there's a reason to drive past a popular national chain and likely spend a little more. And in those moments when you can't buy a doughnut, there are other ways you can show us some love.
We can all make a difference. If not, be prepared for more posts announcing the heartbreaking closure of your favorite local businesses. In the meantime, I’ll be over here eating my feelings.”
It may seem like there is an obvious answer to the question: How can I support the small businesses that I love?
Patronize that business and make consumer choices that intentionally support them.
But! Did you know that there are so many other ways to show your support- many of which don’t cost a thing!
Here are a few that make a difference for us here at Enderly:
Engage on social media! Comment, like, subscribe, and share
Recommend local businesses to friends, family, and colleagues
Leave a positive review- this is a big one! (Check out the link below)
Order takeout and delivery
Take a class with local artisans
Visit your farmer's market
Buy and gift local artwork and decor
Buy gift cards
Sign up for newsletters
Do your holiday shopping early and local
Visit local pop-up events
AND BECOME A RAGING FAN TELLING EVERYONE AND ANYONE ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE BIZ....
Would you judge us harshly to quote Spiderman comics here? 😉
“With great power comes great responsibility!”
Let's use that power to keep our city unique and thriving (and while there, leave some reviews for your your other favorite local businesses)🤝.
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