But how many people really do go local? In 2000, Statistics Canada reported that although there
are many downsides to big box stores, 72 per cent of Canadians said big box stores provide a more
convenient place to shop. In that same study, 68 per cent said big box stores have lower prices. But
overall, local and big box stores are almost evenly matched, with only 57 per cent of Canadians having
said big box stores are good for consumers overall.
In the battle between independent business owners and the chain stores that malls and “power
centres” often wage, it’s easy to forget that, in the grand scheme of things, both contribute to the
local economy. Property taxes and wages are paid in both cases, and a downturn in any type of
business takes its toll. While the economic narrative is rife with stories of large chains and shopping
centres destroying neighbourhood shopping in communities across North America, it’s also true
that the presence of those same chains puts people to work and saves them money.
Big box stores have their downside, such as lack of personal service, traffic difficulties and large
crowds. But so do independent stores. Many consumers complain about higher prices and fewer
options when visiting an independent business, whether it’s a retail store or a coffee shop.
Just as consumers have their fair share of complaints, so do the owners themselves. According
to Amir Hanis, owner of the Awesome Fashions clothing store, located in downtown Windsor for
seven years, there are good reasons why he has to charge more for his products.
“If you’re a very big supplier, you have a chain of stores. So if you’re a chain store, you’re going
to get 50,000, 100,000 pieces. So when you increase the quantity, the price will be cheaper. So if
somebody is importing stuff from China, a t-shirt will cost $2.00, maximum $2.50 and then they
will sell that t-shirt for $20. So they are making much more profit,” says Hanis. “Small business
people, they cannot do such kind of things. They go to third parties and they get the stuff which is
from small boutiques... So the stuff will cost you $20, $30 a piece… eventually you realize you’re not
making anything because you can’t get 1000s of pieces, you can only go and pick a few hundred
pieces from them.”
And then there’s the choice between unique and popular. Independent retailers and restaurants
can offer patrons one-of-a-kind products and experiences. Chances are, if you purchased a scarf or
skirt at Casa Chevela, you won’t be sitting next to someone on the bus wearing the same thing.
Conversely, if Suzy Shier is out of your size sweater, you can always check the same store across town.
It all depends on your shopping preferences and what you’re looking for. Visitors to Windsor-Essex,
for example, may need the comfort of the familiar menu at Montana’s the day they arrive, then feel
motivated to branch out to Motorburger the next day.
Higher prices aren’t always a deterrent; many residents are quite loyal to their local shops. Ron
Balla, who has owned the Coffee Exchange for 22 years, says there are times when he makes enough
In the battle between independent business owners
and the chain stores that malls and “power centres”
often wage, it’s easy to forget that, in the grand
scheme of things, both contribute to the local
economy.
May 2015 - The HUB 23