Shop local cuts out shipping delays this holiday season

Wednesday, November 24, 2021

DAR/Samantha Tucker

Local businesses have been preparing for the busiest time of the year for months. They say they not only offer unique, quality goods, but you're guaranteed to receive your holiday presents without a tracking number.

Customers admire a display of bath products at Archer Apothecary, which prioritizes high-quality, US-made goods. Ordering domestic products alleviates supply and delivery delays while supporting other small businesses, said owner Tad Long.
Ordering domestic products alleviates supply and delivery delays while supporting other small businesses, said Archer Apothecary owner Tad Long.
La Boutique, one of several Tucker Road shops owned by Lilli Hurst and her family, hosts a crowd of shoppers during the citywide Christmas Open House that kicked off the holiday shopping season in Poplar Bluff. Stores like La Boutique have an advantage over online distributors and big box stores because they have unique items and no delay for pickup.
A shopper compares sparkly sprays of foliage at New Leaf Flower & Plant Shop. Owner Justin DeGonia said ordering products far in advance and staying flexible in the moment has kept them from feeling the worst of the supply chain delays facing other businesses.

New Leaf Flower & Plant Shop’s halls are decked and stocked for the holiday shopping season. Owner Justin DeGonia said ordering products far in advance and staying flexible in the moment has kept them from feeling the worst of the supply chain delays facing other businesses.
Shoppers meander near La Boutique, The Blessed Nest and Hillock’s. Patronizing local businesses allows them to enrich and support their communities in turn, according to business owner Justin DeGonia.
Manager Deidra Willis rings up a customer at Hillock’s — A Man’s Store. Willis says everyone learned the value of community last year, and supporting community includes shopping at the businesses run by local individuals.