You already know the power of Shop Local. It’s the heartbeat of Main Street USA. It’s a rallying cry for consumers to support small businesses, strengthen local economies, and keep downtowns vibrant. However, there’s another layer to this local-first philosophy that’s just as vital: supporting the local, independent sales representatives who bring great products to your shelves.
Enter Reps Are Local Too, a growing movement uniting more than 60+ independent sales rep agencies across the country (including yours truly, Road Runners!) with one mission: to spotlight the incredible value local reps bring to retailers, communities, and the gift and home industry at large.
More Than Just a Sales Call: Reps as Industry Allies
Your local rep isn’t just someone who drops off a catalog or writes an order. They’re your trusted partner, product curator, market trend translator, and retail cheerleader. They live and work in your area, understand your customers, and care deeply about helping your business succeed.
They’re also the ones behind the scenes attending trade shows, staying up to date on product launches, analyzing sell-through data, and planning showroom experiences that make shopping fun and easy for you.
What’s New: Continuing Education for Reps
What makes Reps Are Local Too even more powerful today is its growing focus on education and professional development for sales reps. The movement has launched initiatives that provide representatives with access to tools, training, and industry insights, helping them become even better partners to retailers.
Think webinars on industry trends, peer mentoring, tech training, and more—because when reps are well-equipped, everyone benefits. Better reps mean stronger service, more innovative product suggestions, and more informed selling strategies that drive results for your store.
Why It Matters: Real Local Impact
With over 4.6 million retail establishments in the U.S., many of which are powered by the hustle and heart of local representatives, this movement isn’t just feel-good—it’s foundational. When you order from your local rep, you’re keeping dollars in your community, supporting small businesses, and creating jobs. These reps aren’t just selling, they’re building community.
What You Gain When You Work with a Local Rep:
- Tailored Advice: Reps know what sells in your area and can recommend products that fit your customer base.
- Insider Access: Many reps offer early previews, exclusive specials, and access to bestsellers.
- Always On: Most rep agencies, like Road Runners, offer online ordering portals so you can place orders 24/7—with your rep still getting credit.
- Human Connection: From sample drops to post-market follow-ups, reps are there for you.
How You Can Support the Movement:
Make appointments with your reps at market—it helps them serve you better and gets you the perks like VIP bags and early access to promos.
Ask for your rep when placing orders or researching brands online.
Give feedback—a simple email to a brand about your rep goes a long way in recognizing their hard work.
Follow the movement at @repsarelocaltoo on the social channels and check out www.repsarelocaltoo.com to learn more.
Reps are the original influencers of our industry, building relationships, curating products, and making retail personal again. Let’s continue to strengthen our industry by investing in our rep relationships and keep shopping local at every level. Together, we’re not just placing orders, we’re shaping the future of independent retail.