Lance Calvert, owner of Branded in Butler, said his shop had a 65% increase in sales the week of Black Friday compared to the same week last year. Eddie Trizzino/Butler Eagle

In the midst of a stream of national news reporting a dip in retail sales as Americans struggle with the challenges of inflation that has outpaced wages for years, Butler small business owners offer a bright spot.

In Monday’s edition of the Butler Eagle, we heard from local entrepreneurs on Butler’s Main Street who said they saw an uptick in activity this holiday season, some even reporting record-breaking seasons.

For instance, Main Level Games owner Evan Miranda said he had such a good year, he’s decided to open six days a week instead of five for the foreseeable future. Branded in Butler owner Lance Calvert also said he saw a significant increase in sales compared to previous years.

While this is undoubtedly a good thing for those businesses, it’s also good news for the community as a whole.

Shopping at smaller, local shops can provide the opportunity for more personal gifts but it has other benefits as well.

Shopping local keeps money in the community, rather than funneling it to national or international entities. That, in turn, supports other local businesses and the jobs they create. All of this supports local families and ensures a healthy, vibrant community.

While inflation may still be an obstacle for families, we’re glad to see the people of Butler are supporting local businesses and, by extension, each other.

— JP