A plea to save Bozeman.
In the past decade, some of Bozeman’s best stores have shuttered, despite a booming population. Who, or what, is to blame? Not the newcomers, as those who fear change often blame; they’re bringing more business, not less. Most likely, the culprit is too much online and chain-store shopping.
Bozeman’s contingency of cool and unique retailers doesn’t have to dissipate, but it will if it’s not supported. Remember, this is our community and we all need to do our part to preserve it—newcomers and old-timers alike. When we shop on Amazon for products that are available locally, we’re not helping our town or its people—we’re supporting a multinational company based in Seattle. Even ordering from independent retailers in other states isn’t good—let those stores serve their own communities.
For the love of Bozeman, don’t try something on in a local store only to buy it online for $10 cheaper. That’s downright rude.
Why ignore our neighbors, instead of greeting out-of-state conglomerates on our doorsteps, just to save a few bucks? There are so many great retailers in the area; you usually can find what you’re looking for. If not, the store will point you to another local shop—a rising tide floats all boats. Or they can order the product directly from the manufacturer, cutting out the middle-man megacorporation. Those new hiking boots may take an extra day to arrive, but knowing that you supported the community will make them feel that much better on your feet.
Sure, every once in a while, you gotta go online or to the big-box store. Just keep it to an absolute minimum. And for the love of Bozeman, don’t try something on in a local store only to buy it online for $10 cheaper. That’s downright rude.
