Athens is known for its collection of small businesses, local restaurants and charming venues. On Court Street, however; the balance between local and corporate, small and large, is quickly slipping, creating a worrying dilemma for the Athens landscape.
At a small business, one can often shop with a conscience without having to abandon it at the front door. It’s a relief. But on Court Street, it’s becoming a worrying pattern of disappearances.
Despite expected turnover, Court Street has seen a consistent rise in the number of large corporations buying spaces in prime locations. For example, Keystone’s Mac Shack closed last year while large chains like Raising Cane’s bought new locations near campus.
It’s a worrying choice between convenience and quality. After all, busy schedules on campus prevent student engagement with the broader Athens community, limiting local investment in small businesses during the week. However, those businesses are the backbone of regional economic support.
Using major economic indicators like job creation and local economic impact, small businesses are the vital heartbeat of cities like Athens. The United States Chamber of Commerce reports small businesses have accounted for between 43.5% and 50.7% of the US gross domestic product since the 1990s.
Solely crediting major corporations for meeting those standards is not just irresponsible but it also ignores the critical work small businesses accomplish. As businesses grow over time, they tend to employ more people, generating higher net job creation than larger businesses. Small businesses are critical engines driving economic output, especially in regions like Appalachia.
Because of their size, small businesses are better equipped to meet the needs of their employees and customers, notably when it comes to philanthropic support. 91% of small businesses believe they should give back to their local area. According to Oregon State University, a majority of them do.
That creates a system of goodwill and mutual support, drawing disparate groups of people together to support common causes. Whether it’s sponsoring donation drives or donating revenue to places like shelters and hospitals, small businesses connect customer satisfaction with local impact.
Think about some of Athens’ small businesses. For example, Jackie O’s, a local brewing and food venue, partners with local organizations like the Athens County Humane Society and the Southeast Ohio Foodbank and Regional Kitchen.
Donkey Coffee, another Athens favorite, promotes financial giving by supporting organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Athens Public Library.
By occupying spaces closer to Athens residents, many local businesses tap into the beating pulse of activism and public support that so often characterizes on-campus commitments and goes much farther throughout the region.
Consumers react positively to businesses with stronger local commitments and moral guideposts. It’s shopping with a conscience, and it makes it much easier when customers don’t have to pick between quality products and lasting local impact.
People tend to support businesses they feel good about. In fact, 77% of consumers are more likely to purchase from companies and businesses with ‘social responsibility’ initiatives.
Local businesses have been a crucial part of the Athens and Ohio University landscape for decades. From late-night bites to quality music venues, there is something for every person who visits and lives here. Yet, the continued rise of corporate conglomerates on Court Street is a worrying sign that local responsibility is being placed into the hands of businesses that do not share or have a financial interest in the needs of Athens residents.
Of course, there’s no need to feel guilty for picking up something quick on the way to class. However, consistency is key to supporting local growth and business. Showing up today for small businesses in Athens means continued local support tomorrow for everyone else. After all, the best meal is one whose benefits are enjoyed by the consumer, the owner and your neighbor.
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