Louisiana Business Sparks Viral Discussion on ‘Supporting Local’ Amid Economic Struggles

A local Louisiana business, Southern Peach Bottoms Reloaded, ignited a lengthy debate about the feasibility of supporting small businesses in an economy that leaves many families barely scraping by. The discussion, which went viral on Facebook, highlighted the complex balance between championing community-based commerce and grappling with tight household budgets.

Southern Peach Bottoms Reloaded, a business known for its customized clothing and apparel, made a post to Facebook after a visit to Walmart. The owner expressed frustration over the inability to compete with the big box store's low-priced Mardi Gras t-shirts. The post underscored the stark reality that crafting personalized items comes at a cost, often unattainable for small boutiques. "Those who have shops to supplement their household income can't compete with $8 shirts," the post read, making a poignant case for the higher prices small businesses must charge to cover costs.

The post intended to promote local business support, but it veered into a candid collection of economic hardships faced by both small business owners and consumers. Comments poured in, some in support, others outlining the stark financial realities that steer them towards cheaper alternatives like Walmart.

One comment highlighted the dilemma of a family of eight, weighing the affordability of Walmart shirts against pricier boutique options. Another user pointed out the need for small businesses to source materials wholesale to remain competitive. A poignant observation came from a commenter who noted, "Low-income families who want to participate in Mardi Gras activities can't always afford boutique/small biz prices. Sometimes it's not about you."

A common thread among the responses was the harsh economic landscape affecting everyone. From struggling to buy shirts for large groups to the need for small businesses to rethink their pricing strategies, the comments painted a picture of a community torn between supporting local and managing tight budgets.

I don’t mean to be the mean mom here but dress up days are many and with a teachers salary at what it’s at these days, I can’t afford small businesses anymore and it’s sad sad to me! Saving that $20 you’re talking about is a meal on my table for my babies. Sadly that’s where our world is at. I’m not riding in floats or providing for any crews but my own family it’s really hard these days for a small family just to make ends meet there is not a lot for extras and any coupon or value deal I’m taking it because I have to think about my family too. And honestly Walmart is not where my mom friends are getting things for $8 it’s Temu and SHEIN for $4 a shirt I’m not sure anyone can beat that and honestly china knows American people are struggling and they are monopolizing now for 10 dress up days it cost me $45 dollars Vs $100 at $25 dollars a shirt from a vender. It’s definitely a sad day and not what we want to do but our own small family must come first!

One user captured the dilemma in one short sentence: "It's really tough for small businesses to compete...but life is expensive for them, it's also expensive for us." This sentiment was echoed by another who stressed the importance of building a brand and customer relationships over lamenting big retailers' advantages.

Unfortunately. If I have to buy shirts for 10 people, yes I would rather spend $86.40 than $150-250. Most of us love to shop with small businesses. But just like life is expensive for them, it’s also expensive for us. I honestly get so sick of seeing small business owners complain about big stores like Walmart. DUH they’re going to be cheaper. DUH people don’t automatically want to spend $25 on 1 tshirt that they really don’t need. You should have thought about that before starting your business. Don’t act like you didn’t already know they were cheaper & that owning a business was hard. Especially one that is so over saturated like vinyl shirts, kids boutiques, etc. Build your brand & your relationship with customers. Word of mouth does wonders. If people don’t know you or your business why would they choose you over something cheaper that’s still good quality?

The debate is far from black and white. While supporting local businesses can enrich communities and help individual entrepreneurs, the economic strain many families face cannot be overlooked.

As much as I would love to have the boutique clothes. I simply can’t afford it in this economy. My son is 8 months and I wanted to get him a cute outfit from a local boutique near me for Mardi Gras but the prices were crazy. I can’t afford to spend 50+ dollars on an outfit he will probably only wear once considering he’s a baby that grow so fast. As much as I would love to have him in the cute Mardi Gras suit I can’t afford it so Walmart or cheaper places is where we go or DIY type outfits. Hopefully in the future I can afford to spend that type of money on things that aren’t necessary but for now I simply can’t

The debate extended beyond just clothing, with comments from small business owners in other sectors sharing their struggles. A candle maker described the challenge of competing with big box stores during sales, underscoring the broader impact of pricing on small businesses.

Unfortunately some customers will always go for discounted stuff and sales for cheaper items:( the big stores like Walmart , BBW, Target hurts my candle business. Mainly BBW considering they do the $9 candle sale and everyone goes nuts over them. Which i never understood why but after review the ingredients in the candle i refuse to buy from them ( but i am also a candle maker so i dig into those ingredients ALL THE TIME NOW ) So sad bc every now and then I’ll get that one customer who would ask how much it is, then put it back bc it’s $15 and “out their budget” but they’ll turn around and spend money at a big company place. But once they decide to try my candles, they come back. I love and appreciate all my customers and those who know me know the work i put into them. In my opinion, it does suck and it makes things harder on us but I’ve seen your work and purchased from you so many times! I will forever come back to you. Keep up the amazing work!! Love the things you create.

A crucial point raised in the discussion was the need for small businesses to innovate and differentiate. One user suggested focusing on unique products not available at large retailers. This sentiment was echoed by others who advised small businesses to find niche markets or offer exceptional quality to justify higher prices.

I of course want to support small businesses and try to but sometimes it just doesn’t work for these types of items. In my opinion there are SO MANY people doing these same things it’s unbelievable! Maybe the key is to find a business that offers a unique product that IS NOT sold at Walmart. And a saturated market.

However, the debate wasn't one-sided. Some comments highlighted the vital role small businesses play in the community, offering personalized service and local engagement that big corporations cannot match. A commenter noted, "Small businesses are the backbone of our community and deserve our support, even if it means spending a bit more."

It's really tough for small businesses to compete when they have to sell their products at higher prices compared to big retailers like Walmart. The cost of materials alone, like vinyl for shirts, is already quite high. And when you add the cost of the shirt itself and the time spent on crafting, it's understandable why crafters have to charge more for their shirts. It's frustrating when people preach about supporting local businesses but then go and support big corporations like Walmart. I think it's important for everyone to take a moment and reconsider their choices. Supporting local businesses not only helps the community but also directly benefits individuals and families. #SupportLocal #NoMatterWhat

The conversation also touched on the broader implications of consumer choices. One insightful comment read, "Every time we choose a big box store over a local business, we're shaping our community's economic landscape." This perspective urged consumers to consider the long-term effects of their spending habits.

Amidst the varied opinions, a consensus emerged on the importance of consumer education and awareness. Many agreed that while supporting local businesses is ideal, practical realities often dictate choices. This led to a call for greater understanding and cooperation between consumers and small businesses, recognizing that each faces its own set of challenges.

This viral discussion has not only opened a window into the ongoing struggle of small businesses but also shed light on the broader economic challenges that force consumers to prioritize affordability over community support.

In an economy where even a $20 difference can mean a meal on the table, the question remains: Is there a one-size-fits-all approach to supporting local businesses? Or must we, as a community, find a more nuanced, empathetic understanding of both the consumer's and the small business owner's plight? The answers may not be straightforward, but the conversation is crucial in finding a balance that benefits all.

This viral post is certainly part of a bigger discussion that seems to be never-ending and far from over. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.