Journalists shedding light on local businesses in the shadows of corporate America

We live in a corporate society. More times than I can think of I have heard the phrase “corporate America.” From billion-dollar law firms, banks, electric companies and fast food chains, more and more consumers are feeding their money towards corporate greed.

What about local businesses?

Depending on the location and product being served, local businesses either prosper or are holding on by a thread to stay afloat.

I have always loved walking through a new town to find the most unique coffee shop or boutique as it is specially tailored to that community. When was the last time you drove through a small town, staring at all the shops and restaurants, and thought, “This is such a cute little town?”

But what happens if there are no local businesses left in communities across the country?

Corporate greed, millions of jobs lost and a lack of community.

Quint Studer, author of "Building a Vibrant Community: How Citizen-Powered Change Is Reshaping America" wrote in a Strong Towns article that a strong local business presence is what gives a community its character. It provides a sense of “place” that attracts tourists, creates job opportunities and economic growth, and reflects and amplifies the culture of the community.

A 2023 study from The Zebra found that 19.6% of businesses closed due to strong competition (corporations), 18.75% closed from unsustainable growth rate and 17.5% from a lack of market interest.

So where do we go from here?

I am a firm believer that local journalists and local businesses are more similar than we may think. They both are actively engaged in the community, passionate about their community and create personal relationships with residents.

The difference is, journalists can reach a broader audience.

We as journalists have a duty to keep these businesses alive as if our own local news outlet was struggling to stay afloat. The first step to doing this is by highlighting, promoting and personalizing a business by sharing the owner or employee’s stories. We are a voice for our community and without these businesses, there will be no community.

So I ask, the next time you go out for a morning coffee, are you going to spend your hard earned money at your favorite local shop with the owners greeting you at the door with the biggest smile on their face, or are you going to stop at Dunkin and contribute to corporate America?

Over the next three months, I will be sharing four different stories about local businesses in Tompkins County that have a major impact on community engagement and legacy. I am strongly passionate about this topic and cannot wait to be a voice for the Southern Tier.

As I begin my journey, if anyone knows of a business in Tompkins County that is an active member of the community and have a story worth sharing, comment below or reach out to me! Feel free to express you thoughts, feelings and opinions about this topic to me as well.