It’s true, but it’s also because small businesses often suck and exploit their communities, so people just stop shopping there when they have better options.
I’m not sure why so many people have rose colored glasses on for mom and pop stores, but they are just run by people trying to make a profit off of a community same as anyone else.
I agree with everything said here and just want to ask, can you possibly have someone hold the bottom for you? At least that way you’ll have an extra layer of safety.