BUY LOCAL!

Remember the Fram Oil Filter commercial that said "you can pay me a little now, or a lot later?" Everytime I think about Walmart and Lowes I am reminded of that commercial.

These two giants have cornered their respective markets with their slash and burn pricing strategies, and here is how they have done it.

First, they sell clothes below cost, forcing local mom and pop retailers out of business. Then, once this objective has been accomplished, they can gradually raise prices since they have no competition.

Then, they enter the lawn/garden equipment business and employ the same strategy. Next comes books, sporting goods, food etc. Of course Lowes has done the same thing with building supplies.

And what is the end result?



Mom and pop businesses across the country have been forced out of business, unable to compete with Walmart's ability to sell at a loss until mom and pop are forced to close. THEN, once the competition is wiped out, these giant retailers will be able to adjust prices upward as they see fit. This takes money OUT of the community and creates higher unemployment.

Personally, I will always go somewhere else and pay a little more for my lumber, lawn equipment, groceries, electronic etc. and keep my money in the community. Why should I pad the pockets of Lowes' and Walmart's stockholders. I'd rather pad the pocket of my neighborhood business that pays taxes in my town, and sends his kids to school with my kids, and shares my Bible Belt values.

I'd rather do business with someone who can SERVICE what they sell, and give me ADVICE on what product would suit my needs best in the long run. Remember, paying a little more now for quality quite often saves money IN THE LONG RUN.

So as you shop this holiday season, consider paying a little more to preserve our way of life. Like the Fram Oil Filter commercial, you may pay a little more in the short run, but I promise you, you will be glad you did in the long run.