Saline, Michigan (CBS Detroit) – Running a business isn’t easy.
According to a report by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, half of small and medium-sized businesses close within five years of opening, and 65% do not reach their 10th anniversary.
CBS News Detroit showcases and celebrates the successes of Metro Detroit businesses through Michigan Made.
Community Impact executive producer Amir Makupson takes us to Saleen and introduces us to the business owner who says he hopes sharing his story will be a “good thing” for “Goodbye.” Masu.
McPherson Local is located in the Old Saline Library, built in the early 1900s.
“McPherson Local is an all-Michigan made general store, working with 180 manufacturers, and our goal is to share great things made here in our community and across Michigan. It’s about highlighting, supporting and introducing the community,” Jen said. McPherson, owner of McPherson Local.
Since 2017, the store stocks knick-knacks, jewelry, and knick-knacks.
“We started with just 25 manufacturers and now we have 180. So we have been able to build a good reputation. We have been able to spread our message through word of mouth and people are Now we want to sell it in our store.” ”
Business was good until the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
“During COVID and the pandemic, things took a turn for the worse,” McPherson said. “I applied to the best of my ability and answered all my answers honestly. I know that when it came to payroll and the PPP loan, I was told that my salary was too low to qualify for assistance. It wasn’t a good enough paycheck.” So that was kind of a bummer, because I’m the least of the little things, so I hope that gives you some peace of mind.
“We’re still in that hole and I’m not sure we’ll ever get out of it. At this point, we need to make sure we don’t take on any more debt. It’s been very, very difficult.” We had to make the decision to close down. ”
So ended the lives of McPherson and her employee-turned-best friend.
“I think I kind of knew it was coming…I don’t really worry about myself. I know I’ll figure it out, but I don’t really worry about it. “Because this is like her baby and I was given the privilege of being included in it,” McPherson Local Store Manager Ellery Hatop said.
“It’s definitely sad. I definitely cried for a month. But it’s a dream and now you’re watching your dream being sold piece by piece.” McPherson said.
For now, final sales are being made and wishes are being shared. By sharing her story, McPherson hopes to inspire people to shop local.
McPherson Local will permanently close its stores on March 30th.
