Trumbull County business owners express importance of shopping small

February 20, 2026 - 10:01

A concerning trend is sweeping through Trumbull County as numerous small businesses are making the difficult decision to close their doors permanently. This wave of closures has sparked urgent conversations among remaining business owners and community leaders about the vital importance of choosing to shop locally.

These independent stores, restaurants, and service providers form the backbone of the local economy and the character of our neighborhoods. Owners emphasize that every purchase made at a small business directly circulates money within the community, supporting local jobs, funding city services through taxes, and sustaining the unique fabric of the region. When a local business thrives, it creates a ripple effect of prosperity.

The current climate presents significant challenges, from economic pressures to competition from large online retailers. Community members are now being called upon to consciously redirect their spending. Choosing to buy a gift from a main street boutique, dining at a family-owned restaurant, or utilizing a local tradesperson is more than a transaction—it's an investment in the community's future and a stand against the homogenization of our commercial landscape. The collective message is clear: the survival of these cherished local institutions depends on deliberate and sustained community support.