Why Supporting Small Businesses Like Pronio's Matters More Than Ever

When you walk into Pronio’s Market in Hershey, PA, you’re stepping into a living piece of history. This 100+-year-old, family-owned grocery store doesn’t just offer products—it provides an experience, one that’s deeply rooted in community and tradition. Compare that to a trip to Walmart, where efficiency, scale, and low costs dominate. While both options fulfill immediate shopping needs, the broader impacts of where we spend our money go far beyond what meets the eye.

Here’s why supporting small businesses like Pronio’s can make a meaningful difference in your community—and your life.

1. Building a Thriving Local Economy

When you shop at Pronio’s, every dollar spent generates nearly 70% more local economic activity than a dollar spent at a big-box retailer like Walmart. Small businesses reinvest their earnings locally by:

• Creating jobs for local residents.
• Sourcing goods and services from other small businesses.
• Supporting local initiatives and nonprofits.

This ripple effect strengthens the financial foundation of the entire community. When local businesses thrive, so do the schools, parks, and infrastructure that rely on tax dollars from small enterprises.

2. Fostering a Sense of Community

Pronio’s isn’t just a grocery store; it’s a cornerstone of Hershey’s identity. The personal touch of greeting familiar faces, hearing about local events, or learning about seasonal products builds connections that big-box stores simply can’t replicate.

3. Encouraging Sustainability

Shopping locally reduces your carbon footprint. Pronio’s sources many of its fresh goods from nearby farms and suppliers, cutting down on the long-distance transportation required by massive supply chains. Contrast this with Walmart, where items often travel thousands of miles before hitting the shelves, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Preserving Local Heritage

Pronio’s is more than a store—it’s a legacy. A hundred years of serving Hershey has built a rich history of stories, traditions, and relationships. Supporting small businesses ensures this heritage is preserved for future generations, maintaining the unique character of the town. In contrast, shopping at Walmart contributes to the homogenization of communities, eroding the distinct identities that make places like Hershey special. 

What You Can Do to Support Small Businesses

There are plenty of ways to champion small businesses:

• Shop Small, First: Prioritize local stores for your daily needs.
• Spread the Word: Share your positive experiences online or by word of mouth.
• Participate in Community Events: Attend events like farmer’s markets, holiday food tours, or small business fairs to show your support.
• Advocate: Encourage local governments to adopt small-business-friendly policies and provide resources for entrepreneurs.

The next time you’re deciding between a trip to Pronio’s or Walmart, think about what your dollars mean. Supporting small businesses goes beyond individual purchases; it’s about investing in a vibrant, sustainable, and connected community. And you can get some really amazing sausage at Pronios. I think I’ll head over there now.