Consider This: Whenever you’re buying from the owner — or someone with direct access to the owner — discounts are easier to get than in chain stores. “The boss has the power to make decisions, he knows his bottom line, and he knows the value of making a sale and establishing good rapport with a customer,” says Fram.

Try This: Explain to the store’s owner that you’re a local customer (if you are) and that you like shopping at independent retailers and coming back to a merchant you know. Mention what the big-box stores are charging for the same item and ask the independent retailer if he will match the price — or at least come close. If the owner can’t budge on price, ask for free delivery for bigger items.