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Gear and Technology

Tis the season to shop local.

October 29, 2021 | By Brooks Staff
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Want to know where to buy Brooks shoes and gear? We recommend your local running specialty store.

Why shop small?

Small businesses have had a tough time the last few years, and it’s more important than ever to support them. According to the Small Business Administration, there were approximately 31.7 million small businesses in the United States in 2020.

Shopping local is gratifying. It feels good to buy doughnuts from the mom-and-pop shop down the street or a sweet pair of Ghost 14s from the running specialty store in your neighborhood. You get excellent customer service and in return, your money goes straight to the people who work in those stores.

Consider buying your running gifts from a local running specialty store. What you spend could be a lifeline for a small business this holiday season. Shopping small for running gear helps your local economy, builds community, and connects you with other runners.

When to shop local

In 2010, American Express started the first Small Business Saturday™ in the U.S. as a way to help small businesses stand out amongst mega-retailers during the big Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping events. The idea is to give small, local brick-and-mortar businesses an opportunity to attract customers on the shopping bonanza of a weekend after Thanksgiving.

Local running stores are sure to have lots of deals for this year’s Small Business Saturday, but there’s plenty of opportunity to support your favourite local stores until then. Your continued, year-round patronage is essential to the growth of small businesses.

Two people sitting on a bench drinking coffee surrounded by holiday gifts

How to shop local

One of the biggest benefits of shopping local is the personalized experience. Knowledgeable employees can help find the perfect gear for you or your loved ones. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has made in-person shopping a challenge for small businesses and customers. Depending on where you live, safety precautions limit contact with employees and stores. Here are some tips you can use to shop safely when shopping local:

  • Buy online and use curbside pickup or delivery if available.
  • If shopping in-store, call ahead to make sure what you’re looking for is in stock.
  • Speak with a staff member over the phone and provide details about what you’re looking for. They are experts and can help you find the perfect fit, even if you’re not there in person.
  • If you liked your experience, shop again and tell your friends and family. Small businesses rely on frequent shoppers and referrals.

Where to shop local for Brooks gear

Want to support local small businesses, get the best running gifts on the planet, and have your gear delivered on the same day you order it? Use the Brooks specialty store finder to search for a local running specialty store near you and use the code BROOKSSAMEDAY when you check out.

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