.svg)
Let's give a big shoutout to all the independent retailers out there as we celebrate Independent Retailer Month on July 1! This month-long holiday was first established in the early 2000s to recognize and support small, locally-owned businesses. These independent retailers play a vital role in our communities by providing unique products, personalized customer service, and contributing to the local economy. So this July, show your support by shopping at these small businesses and discovering all they have to offer!
<div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2000</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Beginning of Small Business Movement</div><div class='timeline-text'>The new millennium saw a surge in support for local businesses against the backdrop of increasing corporate globalization.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2003</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>First Independent Retail Campaign</div><div class='timeline-text'>The concept of a campaign to promote independent retailers was first proposed, leading to local initiatives in support of small businesses.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2009</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Independent Retailer Week</div><div class='timeline-text'>Independent Retailer Week was launched as an annual event to create awareness and appreciation for small businesses across the country.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2011</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Establishment of Independent Retailer Month</div><div class='timeline-text'>Building on the success of Independent Retailer Week, July was designated as Independent Retailer Month, championing support for local businesses throughout the month.</div></div></div><div class='timeline-item'><div class='timeline-left'><div class='timeline-date-text'>2016</div></div><div class='timeline-center'></div><div class='timeline-right'><div class='timeline-text timeline-text-title'>Impact on Local Economies</div><div class='timeline-text'>Research showed that for every $100 spent at an independent retailer, $68 would stay in the community, spotlighting the importance of supporting local businesses.</div></div></div>
<div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>1</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Support local businesses</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Make a conscious effort to shop at independent retailers instead of big chain stores. This will not only support your community, but also help small businesses thrive.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>2</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Attend a local market or fair</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Many independent retailers participate in local markets and fairs to showcase their products. Attend one and discover unique items while supporting small businesses.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>3</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Share your favorite independent retailers on social media</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Spread the word about your favorite independent retailers by sharing their information on social media. This will help promote their business and bring in more customers.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>4</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Host a pop-up shop for local retailers</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>If you have a space available, host a pop-up shop for local independent retailers to showcase their products. This will give them a platform to reach potential customers and gain more exposure.</p></div></div><div id='' class='facts-item'><div id='' class='facts-header'><h3 id='' class='facts-number'>5</h3></div><div id='' class='facts-text-wrapper'><h3 id='' class='facts-title'>Participate in a loyalty program</h3><p id='' class='facts-text'>Many independent retailers offer loyalty programs to reward their customers. Take advantage of these programs to not only get perks, but also show your support for their business.</p></div></div>
<div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>A</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Supports local businesses</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Independent Retailer Month is a great opportunity to show support for small, locally-owned businesses. These businesses often face tough competition from larger retailers, and this month encourages consumers to choose them over bigger chains.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>B</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Encourages community growth</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Shopping at independent retailers not only supports the business itself, but it also helps create a stronger community. These small businesses are more likely to buy from other local suppliers and service providers, keeping money within the community and contributing to its growth.</p></div></div><div id='' class='whywelove-item'><div id='' class='whywelove-letter-cont'><div class='whywelove-letter'>C</div></div><div id='why-we-love-main-cont'><h3 id='' class='whywelove-title'>Celebrates unique products</h3><p id='' class='whywelove-text'>Independent retailers often offer products that cannot be found in larger retail stores. This month allows for exposure of these one-of-a-kind items and celebrates the creativity and uniqueness of the business owners. It's a great way to discover new and interesting products!</p></div></div>
<div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>1</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Independent Retailers offer Job Opportunities</h3><p class='facts-content'>Independent retailers provide employment opportunities and contribute substantially to job creation in their local communities, often employing local residents.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>2</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Retail Independents Pay Taxes to Local Government</h3><p class='facts-content'>Unlike multinational corporations, the taxes paid by independent retailers directly benefit their community and local government, contributing to infrastructure development and community services.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>3</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Personalized Customer Service is a Key Benefit</h3><p class='facts-content'>Independent retailers pride themselves on superior customer service, offering personal, expert advice that customers appreciate — a key factor for maintaining loyal customers.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>4</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Independents Add to Cultural Diversity of a Region</h3><p class='facts-content'>Independent retailers add to the cultural and economic diversity of a region. They are often a reflection of the unique character of their local community, adding a personal touch and enhancing the shopping experience.</p></div></div><div class='facts-item'><div class='facts-number-wrapper'><p class='facts-number'>5</p></div><div class='facts-core-content'><h3 class='facts-title'>Independent Retailers Foster Product Innovation</h3><p class='facts-content'>Often, it is independent retailers who bring innovative products to the market. Small retailers have the flexibility to try and promote new products, encouraging an entrepreneurial and innovative spirit.</p></div></div>
Independent Retailer Month is celebrated on July 1st every year. In 2024, the date falls on a Monday.
2023
Jul 1
Saturday
2024
Jul 1
Monday
2025
Jul 1
Tuesday
2026
Jul 1
Wednesday
2027
Jul 1
Thursday
.svg){kind=small}
.svg){kind=small}
