Shop Local After the Storm: How Winter Weather Impacts Laurens County’s Small Businesses

After a winter storm forced many Laurens County businesses to close their doors for two days, local leaders are reminding residents that how — and where — they spend money in the days ahead can make a meaningful difference.

While a couple of snow days may feel like a brief inconvenience for shoppers, for small business owners those lost hours can represent a significant hit. Unlike national chains with large reserves and online sales infrastructure, many locally owned stores and restaurants rely on steady daily revenue to cover payroll, inventory, utilities, and rent.

When bad weather keeps customers home, that income simply disappears.

For restaurants, the impact can be especially sharp. Food orders are placed in advance, and when customers don’t come in, perishable inventory can be lost. Retailers also feel the strain, particularly during slower winter months when foot traffic is already reduced. Service-based businesses — from salons to repair shops — often can’t “make up” missed appointments that were cancelled due to road conditions.

Two unexpected closure days in a row can create a ripple effect that lasts weeks.

Dabs Davis, President and CEO of the Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, said supporting local businesses after a weather event is one of the simplest and most powerful ways residents can strengthen the community.

“When our small businesses have to close unexpectedly, they don’t just lose sales for those days — they lose momentum,” Davis said. “We encourage everyone, as soon as it’s safe, to make a point to shop local, dine local, and use local services. That support helps our businesses recover faster and keeps our local economy strong.”

Economic experts often point out that money spent locally circulates within the community. Local business owners hire local employees, contract with local vendors, and support local nonprofits and events. When those businesses struggle, the effects are felt beyond Main Street.

Community members looking to help don’t have to make big purchases to have an impact. Small, intentional choices add up quickly. Dining at a locally owned restaurant instead of a chain, picking up a gift card for future use, booking an appointment that had to be postponed, or choosing a neighborhood boutique over an online retailer all help restore momentum.

Even simple actions like sharing a business’s social media post, leaving a positive online review, or telling a friend about a favorite local shop can help bring customers back through the door.

Patience can also go a long way. After weather disruptions, businesses may be short-staffed, waiting on delayed shipments, or working through backlogs. A little grace from customers helps owners and employees get back on their feet faster.

Winter weather may come and go, but the strength of Laurens County’s small business community depends on year-round local support. As roads clear and routines return, choosing to shop, dine, and book services close to home is one of the most direct ways residents can help their neighbors recover from the storm’s economic chill.