#local-retail

#local-retail

This bifurcation, according to Stern, is at the separation of commodity buying and experience-based shopping. On the one hand, if someone wants a commodity item or a widely available brand, almost any store will do. A shopper might ask ChatGPT to order more Tide laundry detergent, and not care who sells it. What matters is getting Tide delivered quickly at a low price.

Bookstores and record shops have always been more than places to buy products. They are cultural touchstones, gathering spaces, and outlets for discovery. Yet in today's digital economy, even the most beloved independent shops face a significant challenge: how to attract and retain customers in an era dominated by search engines, algorithms, and online shopping giants. While foot traffic and word of mouth remain important, the businesses that thrive are those that understand how to integrate traditional strengths with modern digital visibility.

This shift means that having a strong digital footprint is no longer optional, it's essential for growth. But the challenge for small businesses is clear: how do you stand out online when competing against big-box chains with bigger budgets, established websites, and in-house marketing teams? The answer lies in leveraging strategic media exposure, targeted SEO, and trusted publications that rank on Google's first page.