Values Await Shoppers in Irmo

Area shoppers who are tired of the lines at the mall stores and the big-box retail outlets can slow down, take a breath and actually relax if opt to patronize some of the abundance of locally owned retail stores in the area.

Irmo shoppers have no shortage of options on where to spend their gift-buying dollars, what with the area’s preeminent mall, Columbiana Center, located nearby.

But having a shopping Mecca on the edge of town actually helps small businesses, according to Tiffany Boyce, president and CEO of the Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce.

“The good thing about Irmo is that we have the shopping center,” Boyce said. “And then, along Columbiana Drive, you have more retail and more restaurants. More foot traffic is always good, and having those big, anchor-type stores brings more business.”

Boyce also said that small-business owners are becoming more willing to adjust their prices to compete with larger stores.

“Small business can offer the same prices,” she said. “The business owners are happy to offer shoppers the same prices. This economy has been tough for the smaller businesses. Now they’re diversifying – they reach out to everyone.”

Irmo is home to a variety of small retail businesses; some are relative newcomers, while others have been mainstays in the Midlands for decades.

One such business is David’s Fine Jewelry in Irmo. Second-generation owner Matt Baughman said that in recent years, the retail business model has changed.

“Product for product, I can sell items for less” than national stores, Baughman said. “And we can get you what you really should have, not just what’s in inventory.”

“I think you’ll find if you’re shopping locally that most cases not only are you getting what you pay for, but in most cases you are getting a little bit more for your dollar. I think that’s one of the things that people way overlook.”

Ilene Koth, a local resident who was shopping for kids clothes Thursday at the Enchanted Closet Children’s Boutique in Murraywood Centre, said small businesses are important to the community.

“I actually like to support local people,” Koth said. “I know there are jobs at the mall, but the small businessperson here, this is important. And I like the selection I get” at local shops.