It is quite possible that Valley residents have never taken notice of all of the small businesses here in North Phoenix. Folks, there are oodles of them. Many exist in strip malls such as the Happy Valley Towne Center, the Norterra Shops, or the dozens of smaller, lesser-known ones that exist. When you have some free time, take a ride around north Phoenix and see what we mean.

Just what will you find in these strip malls? Plenty if you take the time to look. Some strip malls are anchored by big stores such as grocery stores or supercenters. Others exist that are anchored by medium-sized places where the center contains scores of smaller businesses. There are restaurants; both fast food joints and sit-down restaurants, that are simply marvelous. There are tailors, floral shops, small clothing shops, veterinarians, service-oriented businesses. There are often beauty-oriented businesses as well, like haircut joints and nail salons. These are a mere few examples of what you can find.

There are good reasons to patronize small businesses. They tend to be more service-oriented than larger businesses and you can frequently get to know the owners personally. Instead of being just a number to the staff, they get to know you by name. You also contribute to the local economy when you shop at small businesses in the north Valley. It also allows the businesses to keep their staff members employed. Sometimes business is so good for them that they open up additional locations, which translates into more jobs being created.

So, what we are suggesting is that you take a look around your own nearby strip malls and free-standing stores and stop in. See what they have to offer and how friendly they can be. Help your own community to flourish, feel like part of a family, and enjoy life in your neighborhood a little bit more. Trust us, you will not be disappointed.