There's a lot of talk these days about the importance of shopping locally. And at Collingwood Charters, we are proud to partner with and support the hard-working small businesses in and around our vibrant community. But many people wonder, why is it so important to shop local, exactly? Why should you care? In this blog post, we'll give 4 reasons why it's important to support your local businesses.
1) Boosts the Local Economy
When you shop at a locally owned business, more of your money stays in the community. That's because local businesses often buy from other local businesses, and this creates a positive ripple effect that benefits everyone.
For example, let's say you buy a new pair of jeans from a local clothing store. Unlike a big box corporation, that store owner is more likely to put some of that money back into the local economy by hiring a local graphic designer to create a new sign for the store, or by buying supplies from a local printer. This not only boosts the local economy, but creates jobs. Speaking of which...
2) Creates Jobs
Local businesses are a major source of job creation in any community. In fact, between 2014 and 2019 alone, small businesses helped create nearly 472,400 jobs in the private sector—that’s over 78,000 jobs a year!
When you shop local, you're supporting businesses that are creating much-needed jobs right in your own community, as local businesses tend to hire people who live nearby. That's because they understand the community and the people who live there. This can be a major benefit for individuals who may have a harder time finding employment, such as youth, newcomers, and people with disabilities.
3) Protects the Environment
Local businesses often have a smaller environmental footprint than large corporations. They tend to use less energy, produce less waste, and rely less on transportation.
This is because they source their products and services locally, which cuts down on the need for long-distance shipping. All of this is good for the environment—and it's also good for your community, as it can help reduce traffic and pollution.
4) Provides Unique and Relevant Products and Services
Local businesses offer products and services that you just can't find at big box stores. They often carry items that are made locally, which supports other local businesses and helps to keep your community unique.
Or, they provide services that are a perfect fit for the community, like a local construction company that knows everything from the building codes in the area to the best suppliers and contractors for a job. When you support local businesses, you're supporting the unique character of your community.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many good reasons to support your local businesses. It helps boost the economy, create jobs, protect the environment, and provide unique and relevant products and services to your community. So the next time you need to make a purchase, think about where you can buy locally. Your community will thank you for it!
Want to see our partners? Scroll to the bottom of the page here!