Benefits of Shopping Local
Shop Local vs. Shopping Locally
Many of us have seen at least some saying or advertisement to “Shop Local” but come away scratching our heads as to what that really means. Many believe that they do “shop local” because they visit & purchase from stores in their area. This is partially true, but that’s not necessarily what we’re getting at.
When you are “shopping locally”, you’re choosing to purchase from locally owned small businesses vs. big-box retailers.You might be asking yourself, “Well what’s the difference? I am still supporting other businesses in my area that generate jobs.” Again, while there is truth in that, a bigger economic & social impact is felt when shopping locally.
What are the benefits?
More money flowing back into your community
The biggest impact from shopping locally that you’ll hear is the economic benefits for the local community & business owners. According to an article written by TIME magazine, a study done by the New Economics Foundation showed that when people purchase produce at a local farmer’s market vs. a supermarket, twice the amount of money stays within the community. Not only are more of your dollars remaining within your local economic ecosystem, but shopping locally prevents communities from turning into what NEF refers to as “ghost towns” or “clone towns”, where areas are either devoid of any type of local businesses OR the only businesses include fast food & retail chains. Lastly, there’s the argument that shopping locally increases the velocity of money (TIME) - aka the circulation speed of money. This is important because the quicker the money moves, the more hands it passes through, benefiting the people who used it for purchases.
Increase access to fresh foods // novelty items
One unique aspect to shopping locally is that you can discover new products & goods that you wouldn’t have come across shopping at a larger retailer. In my neighborhood for instance, there are a few boutiques that carry amazing products for self-care, clothing items from locally-based fashion designers, and home goods that I wouldn’t have been able to find elsewhere. I also have experienced the same thing at the farmer’s market. I come across so many different vendors with unique products or produce that aren’t readily available elsewhere. There’s also the added benefit of chatting with the person who created the product to learn more about how it’s made & with what materials or foods.
Promote entrepreneurship & job creation
When there’s a strong ecosystem of consumers shopping locally, this is a way to encourage entrepreneurship & job creation. Knowing there’s a demand for a certain product or service & a willingness among consumers to shop locally, it generates innovation & entrepreneurship. With the increase in entrepreneurship, this also drive demand for employment in the area along with more business opportunities to create a network of businesses within your community.
Stimulates social connections
With the shutdowns that took place because of COVID, human connection is needed now more than ever. Shopping locally offers consumers the chance to meet people from the neighborhood & build relationships with them.
How can I start?
It’s never too late to start shopping locally. Something that I’ve done personally is get familiar with local businesses in my area by riding my bike around or going on walks to check out stores on the main street. Look online to see when & where local farmer’s markets are happening & make it a point to go! While I understand going to a farmer’s market every week might not be realistic, even going once a month is still impactful.
