It’s almost that time of the year again, a whirlwind of tinsel, catch up’s with family and friends and that never-ending shopping list of gifts and food to buy. They say there is no time like the present, so this year why not make it your goal to shop local during the silly season?
There are countless benefits to keeping your hard-earned dollars within the community and it’s a good chance to explore some hidden treasures hiding right on your doorstep!
To give you some motivation, here are some of the top ways that shopping local empowers the small business community and how you can get involved.
It helps the environment
Buying local has a positive impact on the environment by minimising your carbon footprint.
This is achieved by reducing the transportation of goods and produce, cutting down on fuel consumption, air pollution, and packaging waste.
And what better way to beat the crowds and stress of packed shopping centre carparks during the silly season than by walking to your local shops or farmers market?
Small businesses bring character to the community
What better way to find that special and unique gift then by shopping locally? Unlike main-stream chain stores, local shops often sell bespoke items that you can’t find anywhere else. From locally made produce (think chutneys, jams and preserves) to hand-crafted items like fashion items or ceramics, these goods are often created by locals using local goods and materials.
You’re boosting your local economy
Spending money at your local shop helps keep the economy of the suburb alive. In fact, on average it has been found that every $100 you spend at a local business– 58% of the funds will stay within the community.1 Not only does this assist with the economic success of small businesses within your community, but it also helps create employment opportunities too.
Create the connection
Make the time to have a chat to your local butcher, baker, artist and get to know the process that is involved in sourcing and crafting their wares. It’s a great way to connect with the community and a chance to learn more about where that steak, lettuce or even where your plate is actually coming from.
Having that connection may be a saving grace during the silly season by being able to get the inside-scoop on what is in season, when to order and any specials which might be coming up.
Give them attention
There’s no denying the power of social media, and it’s a great channel to help support and share your experience with local businesses. If you dine at a café that serves the best coffee in town, let everyone know about it by checking in on Facebook or sharing a photo and tagging them in it on Instagram.
If you’ve been eyeing off that beaded necklace or leather wallet, share it as one of your “Christmas wish list items”. It’s a great way to help promote local business and assist family and friends out who might need some gift-spiration!
Putting your town on the map
While buying local not only helps boost the economy of your community, it can also help drive tourism and attract out of towners to visit. A lot of towns are known for a type of produce that is unique to their region and use it their advantage often by holding markets or festivals to celebrate it.
Christmas markets are a great way to get people excited about the community and celebrate buying local.
Resources
These are some helpful websites which help to find local producers within your area:
Local Harvest: provides a detailed interactive map to find local producers, farmers, markets and more: https://www.localharvest.org.au/
Australian Farmers’ Market Association: lists all the farmers‘ markets across Australia https://farmersmarkets.org.au/find-a-market/
Getting in touch or visiting your local chamber of commerce is a valuable way to find out more about local businesses in your area. They will often have a section to search for different businesses in your area on their website.
Beat the crowds and make the most of what your local small business community has to offer this Christmas, you’ll never know what you might find!
