A variety of new Marquette businesses have opened their doors in the past five years, and many of those businesses are locally owned and operated. These local businesses complement the community, and residents have been eager to support them.

Along with smaller operations, larger retail stores have begun opening in Marquette, most noticeably along US-41. Marquette now has a Best Buy, TJ Max, Lowe’s, Arby’s and PetSmart.

All of these businesses offer people a wider variety of products and prices, but it is also important to think about who’s going to benefit from your patronage.

Take Mares-Z-Doats for example; this business has established itself as a friendly place for pet owners to buy pet food, toys and supplies. They also sell grain, seed and other products, such as their wide selection of work boots.

It is wonderful that our community is attracting outside investment and that the little city of Marquette is growing in size, but it is important to remember the businesses that have been faithfully serving the Marquette community.

People are spending conservatively all over the country, and Marquette residents are no different. Everyone is trying to make their dollars go further during this time of economic uncertainty.

It is not only people who are affected by the current economic conditions, though. Local businesses feel the effects, too.

The next time you need to purchase clothing at a bargain price, consider stopping by one of the consignment shops in town. When your dog’s bowl is empty, remember who has been helping you keep it full for years.

Marquette has been heralded as one of the finest communities in the nation. This is because of the luscious landscapes, friendly people and array of local businesses.

Our community is only as great as the sum of its parts. Make sure you do your part and support local businesses—the same ones that have supported Marquette over the years.