MN Made

A growing body of research is now corroborating something that many of us have already observed: “small-scale, locally owned businesses create communities that are more prosperous, entrepreneurial, connected, and generally better off across a wide range of metrics.”

There is no question that the “shop local” movement is on the rise. More and more entrepreneurs are opening local businesses, and an increasing number of consumers are seeking out local retailers. Eighty-two percent of consumers across all generations report that they have shopped locally in the last year and nearly all of them (98%) will continue or increase shopping locally in the future.

For entrepreneurs, focusing on branding locally is a strategic business decision. It provides an organic approach to raising your profile and boosting your online presence, and—according to 2015 survey data from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance indicating that “independent businesses who have participated in shop local campaigns reported a revenue growth of 9.3%, nearly double the 4.9% increase of those who haven’t”—it can also increase revenue growth. 

Alchemy, a Minneapolis-based group fitness studio (and my second home!), truly embraces and promotes the shop local movement. Alchemy offers a combination of high intensity training (HIT) with yoga to drive performance, fitness, and restoration (if you haven’t tried it, you MUST!). But, it is more than just a gym. It is a community - a community that extends beyond its class offerings.  Alchemy actively collaborates with local businesses in various ways to support our local entrepreneurs. It stocks cold-pressed juice by Juice So Good and nutrient-dense, delicious snacks by WholeMe. Other collaborations include custom-designed fitness journals by Woodchuck USA, a limited-edition Gurley Tote made in collaboration with local brand Blue Claw Co., post-workout visits from the Misfit Coffee Co. trailer, and many, many more.

Alchemy also hosts an annual MN Made event (this year’s is this Saturday, October 15, 2016) that brings together local businesses and entrepreneurs in Alchemy’s North Loop studio for an afternoon of free beer and coffee by Driven Coffee along with local shopping from the likes of Sota Clothing, Annika Kaplan Jewelry, Minny & Paul, and Great Lakes. 

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to support your local community. Check out these great MN made businesses—you won’t be disappointed!