Many communities like Bellingham, Washington, are facing hard times in 2025. While it’s easy to blame online retail giants or broader economic shifts, understanding the real challenges—and, more importantly, how we can collectively respond—can help local shops, eateries and service providers stay open. The importance of “buy local” can help protect our community’s unique charm and livelihoods.
Closure statistics for all Bellingham small businesses in 2025 are still being compiled, but recent reports show the increased pressure some sectors face.
BBay Running permanently closed May 31. Sugar and Co., a Fairhaven bistro, closed July 31. Ponderosa Beer and Books on Roeder Avenue—a three-year staple—plans to shut down by the end of August. These aren’t just isolated incidents; they reflect broader trends.
A recent survey conducted by the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Border Policy Research Institute at WWU highlighted the impact of declining Canadian tourism on local businesses. Over half of the sixty businesses surveyed reported being directly affected by a drop in cross-border travel, with many stating they may not survive without a rebound. Factors cited include a weak Canadian dollar, stricter border policies and general cross-border travel frustrations. This points to a specific vulnerability for businesses that have historically relied on this influx of visitors.
The rise of online shopping continues to reshape consumer habits. While convenient, the shift to e-commerce diverts spending away from brick-and-mortar stores, impacting foot traffic and sales for local retailers. The challenge isn’t just about competition, but about the shift in how people access goods and services.
While Bellingham’s tech sector is projected to experience growth in 2025, creating new jobs and attracting talent, the ripple effect on traditional small businesses remains complex. The city and county are working on economic development initiatives, including the Economic Development Investment Program, which was updated in January 2025 to support local businesses and address needs like workforce housing. However, the impact on the day-to-day viability of small retail, hospitality and service businesses still needs collaborative community effort.
Beyond “Buy Local”: Seven ways you can make a difference in your community
We all know the mantra “buy local,” but for many, it’s not always practical for all purchases. The good news is that supporting Bellingham’s small businesses goes beyond just where you spend your money. Here are seven things you can do to help our local entrepreneurs survive and thrive:
- Be a digital cheerleader. Online presence is everything. Leave positive reviews for your favorite small businesses. Whether on Google, Yelp, Facebook or even Nextdoor, a few thoughtful words and a five-star rating can boost a business’s visibility and attract new customers. Include photos when you can.
- Engage on social media. Follow your favorite local spots, like their posts, share their promotions and comment on a regular basis. Every interaction helps their content reach a wider audience. Word-of-mouth remains powerful. Tell your friends and family. Recommend businesses you love. A personal endorsement is often more effective than any advertisement.
- Prioritize local services. Think beyond just retail and restaurants. When you need insurance agents, accounting services, travel assistance, corporate event planning or a PR consultant, look for local providers. Building relationships with these businesses strengthens the entire community ecosystem.
- Consider gift cards as investments. Gift cards provide immediate cash flow for businesses and encourage future visits, potentially introducing new customers to their offerings. They also make thoughtful presents.
- Attend local events and markets. Festivals, farmers’ markets and pop-up events are ways small businesses can increase visibility and connect with customers. Your presence and small purchases at these Whatcom County events contribute to their sustainability.
- Offer your skills (if applicable). Do you have a professional skill set, such as graphic design, marketing, photography, accounting or even organizational expertise? Consider offering pro-bono support or reduced rates to local businesses in need. Even an hour of your time could make a difference.
- Choose pick-up over delivery apps (when possible). Third-party delivery apps often take a commission from restaurants and other businesses. If you’re ordering takeout, consider calling the business directly and picking your order up to ensure they receive the full benefit of your purchase. If paying with cash is an option, it also helps businesses avoid credit card processing fees.
Bellingham’s vibe is shaped by its small businesses. By taking a few simple actions, we can help them stay open and keep our community strong.
