POMEROY — Did you know that for every $100 spent at a local store, in Meigs County $68 stays in the community compared to $43 if it is a national chain and zero if it is an online purchase?

These were the facts presented by Luke Ortman, executive director of the Meigs County Chamber of Commerce, in an article in the recent Chamber letter where an emphasis was placed on buying local when at all possible.

It also points out in the article that locally owned stores contribute more to local charities than their national counterparts. Large companies contribute to large corporations like the Red Cross and Salvation Army, but not to small community groups like the local band boosters, little league programs or food pantries.

Ortman pointed out that for every two jobs national retailers bring to a community, three are lost as a result of decreased business at a local store.

It is general knowledge that small businesses are the largest employers in the country, and that it is small businesses that generate the most jobs.

After all, the people running small businesses in the community are people who know who you are and what best fits your needs which means fewer trips to wherever to return and exchange items.

Ortman concluded by pointing out that if every one of Meigs County’s registered voters spent just $25 this holiday season at a local business, it would generate $417,850 in revenue.