There's a shopping extravaganza going on right here in D.C. Shop Local to find one-of-a-kind quality products that aren't found in big box stores. Keeping money in the D.C. area strengthens our local economy. If enriching our community isn't enough of a reason to Shop Local, also know you'll be sticking it to the man. For every dollar spent locally, 45 cents goes back into the local economy (Civic Economics 2008). On the other hand for every dollar spent in a big box store only 14 cents goes back into the local economy. Independent businesses are part of what give D.C. its unique flavor – they’re where the locals go.