I stopped buying into the 'hire local only' hype and found better vendors 3 hours away

Everyone in this group always pushes using ONLY Detroit based vendors for everything. I tried that for 2 years with my shop and got burned on pricing and quality every time. Last month I needed a new sign maker and the cheapest Detroit quote was $1,200 with a 5 week wait. I drove out to a small guy near Ann Arbor who did it for $700 in 10 days. The work was actually BETTER too. I know supporting local is the idea but my budget can't handle the Detroit premium anymore. Has anyone else quietly started using suburban or out of town vendors and felt guilty about it?

2 comments

2 Comments

lopez.brooke3d ago

Oh man, I feel this so hard I'm pretty sure I've got a permanent slouch from it. I spent a month trying to find a local caterer for my shop's anniversary party and every single one quoted me at least double what I paid a guy from Flint who drove down with his truck and did the whole thing for less than half. I called my husband after and was like "babe, I think I just committed small business treason" but honestly my wallet is way less stressed now. The guilt is real but so is the savings, you know?

lee_bailey652d ago

Honestly, the part people keep missing is that "hyperlocal" is becoming a privilege, not a principle. Small towns and suburbs don't always have a dozen options to choose from, and when they do, the prices can be punishing just because you're in the area. You aren't betraying anyone by keeping your business afloat. The guy from Flint probably appreciated the work more than some overpriced local caterer who sees your party as a quick cash grab. Ngl, sometimes the real small business move is knowing when to look further out.