Stronger Together: How Small Businesses Thrive Through Sharing

Share Resources + Vendors

In small towns, we often turn to the same trusted local vendors for the essentials — from printing and signage to packaging supplies, shipping, and even custom merch. But instead of everyone placing small, separate orders or trying to solve the same logistical puzzles alone, there’s real value in teaming up.

Here are a few ways to take vendor sharing to the next level:

Combine Orders for Bulk Discounts

Many suppliers offer price breaks on larger orders. If you only need 100 tote bags and your neighboring business also needs 100, placing one combined order of 200 can unlock bulk savings.

Example: A coffee shop and a bakery could co-order paper cups, pastry bags, or napkins in bulk, then split the shipment and cost — saving money while keeping their packaging consistent and professional.

Coordinate Shared Deliveries or Pickups

If multiple businesses are working with the same vendor — for example, a sign company, furniture supplier, or regional wholesaler — see if you can coordinate a shared delivery. This saves on mileage charges or shipping fees and can reduce your carbon footprint too.

Example: A coffee shop and a bookstore both need new sandwich boards. Bundling the order with one vendor could mean shared delivery costs and faster turnaround.

Lend + Borrow Equipment

Not everything has to be purchased or rented independently. Think about tools and equipment that don’t get daily use — like a pop-up tent for events, photo backdrops, product display risers, or even basic tools for booth setup or seasonal decor.

Example: A local business could create a shared inventory list of equipment that others can borrow when needed, like a “community closet” for event gear.

Recommend Trusted Vendors

Even if you’re not placing orders together, swapping vendor recommendations is a great way to support local pros and avoid decision fatigue. Think printers, photographers, web designers, cleaning crews, tech repair, or packaging suppliers — knowing who does a great job saves time and headaches.

Pro Tip: Make a local “resource board” or shared Google Doc for your small biz circle with go-to contacts, tips, and reviews.

Offer Shared Services to Other Businesses

If your business has an in-house resource or tool that others might find helpful, consider offering it as a paid or bartered service.

Examples include:

• Product photography studio setup

• Shipping label printer access

• Event space during off hours

• Laser cutter, Cricut, or heat press use

This not only builds community — it can also create a side stream of income or collaboration opportunities.

The Bottom Line:

Pooling your resources doesn’t just make economic sense, it fosters a spirit of community and trust. When we stop thinking in silos and start thinking in circles, we all benefit. And if you ever want to co-order print materials or signage, you know who to call.