Small Business is Good for the Economy and Good for Your Health

A recent study published by The Cambridge Journal of Regions showed that people who live in communities with a strong concentration of small businesses have lower rates of mortality, obesity, and diabetes than those that rely heavily on big-box chains and other large businesses for their economic well-being. The rationale for this interesting correlation is due to the concept of "collective efficacy" or the “the capacity and willingness of community members to take responsibility for solving local problems.”  Makes sense that small businesses such as retail, restaurants and other services  have a greater interest in a thriving community because it directly impacts their bottom line.