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The importance of independently-owned
businesses
Cooperstown's downtown
is a model of how locally-owned shops can thrive in a "superstore"
world
| Ellsworth
and Sill women's clothing store, Cooperstown, NY, Cooperstown,
NY (photo by Eric J. Hurwitz) |
Article and photo by Eric
H.
It's ironic that in a world where
people buy things to be seen, those same individuals prefer not
to be noticed by shop owners and employees when shopping. The
right to remain anonymous and not be bothered by friendly help
has sadly become a way of life in our society. It simply gets
in the way of cell phone calls, impending business meetings and
other self-perceived important items of the day. That is why
the "superstores" are so popular -- you can get in
and out without any social interaction, except saying "credit"
or "debit" to the cashier.
Taking a deep breath and strolling
down Cooperstown's Main Street serves as an antidote to this
fast-paced lifestyle. Nearly all the colorful shops are independently-owned,
some for generations. Most shop owners take the time to say "hello,"
offer a friendly smile and lend their expertise. They even remember
that returning customer, six or even 12 months down the road.
Customers love the attention.
The slower pace and more personable approach breeds a connection
to each other, taking us away from the one-hour, fast food, got-to-get-there-as-fast-as-we-can
mentality. It is life the way we used to know so affectionately.
Shops like Ellsworth and Sill
(women's clothing), Willis Monie Books, Tin Bin Alley Country
Gifts, the Cooperstown General Store or one of the many baseball
shops (Mickey's Place, Cooperstown Bat Company, etc.) embody
this spirit so well that the employees' attitudes serve as a
reason for customers to return just as much as the quality merchandise.
You've heard critics calling
a film "The feel good movie of the year." The retail
version of this phrase can be found so endearingly in Cooperstown.
Shopping never felt so good.
For more information on
Cooperstown, NY, view the Cooperstown
Travel Library, Attractions Resource
Guide, Calendar of Events, Dining and Lodging sections, and photo gallery
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