Local Business Growth Secret: Why 81% of Customers Choose Community-Connected Brands
Your local business holds more power than you realize. A striking study by Retail Dive shows 81.6% of consumers prefer buying from businesses with strong community ties. This isn't just another statistic - it's your key to sustainable growth.
I've watched countless local businesses transform their success by tapping into community connections. The landscape has shifted dramatically. According to the Content Marketing Institute, 88% of marketers say building community has helped their brand stand out from competitors.
Community isn't just a buzzword anymore. It's become so vital that companies are creating full-time roles focused solely on community building. Gartner's recent research reveals an interesting trend: as people step back from traditional social media, businesses are creating their own community spaces to keep those valuable connections alive.
Here are three simple ways you can put this into action today:
Start a "Local Spotlight" program. Feature one customer or neighboring business each week on your social media. According to HubSpot, user-generated content drives 6.9x higher engagement than brand-created content.
Create a local loyalty program with a twist. Don't just offer points - partner with other local businesses. The Bond Brand Loyalty Report shows 78% of consumers spend more with brands that have strong loyalty programs.
Host monthly community events. Even small gatherings matter. Eventbrite research indicates that 78% of consumers prefer experiences over products, and local events create perfect opportunities for meaningful connections.
The numbers tell a clear story: According to SmallBizGenius, 70% of consumers support local businesses to keep money in their community. By focusing on community connections, you're not just building a business - you're creating a lasting foundation for growth.
