Royal Oak Merchants Want Customers to "Stay Loyal to the Royal"

Wandering the streets of downtown Royal Oak recently, I've found the merchants are displaying colorful signs urging customers to "Buy Local." This trend of 'buying local' has branched out from Michigan-based produce, wine and manufactured products to the storefronts of Main Street, and it's a good thing.

While malls are convenient, it's nice to be able to shop a downtown area such as the one we have in Royal Oak. Similar small cities like Milford, Rochester and Ferndale blessed with quaint downtown ambiance are fun to shop. This is how it was in the 'olden days' folks, before mega-malls, giant retailers, and one-stop shopping.

Under the "Buy Local" signs, I've found many stores have included a sign saying "Stay Loyal to the Royal." This catchy phrase punctuates the need to support our local businesses.

As a small business owner with my main office located in Royal Oak, I am the first to patronize the other small businesses in my city. While it's impossible do all my shopping here, I make it a point to hit up the local grocery stores, restaurants, service companies and stores first before taking my business elsewhere.

Being Loyal to the Royal is a great campaign, and I hope more residents take up the cause.