Retail businesses are vital to small communities. They provide income, jobs and products that people need. But it's a challenge to get people to buy locally and help small businesses compete alongside the "big box"? stores. Two Extension programs help Minnesota communities get the best of both worlds:
Small Stores Success Strategies helps business leaders prosper by providing services and products the large stores avoid. And Retail Trade Analysis gives communities of more than 5,000 people a comprehensive report that compares their retail sector to those of similar-sized communities. Local leaders use this information to help support and grow their own businesses.
