29 Jul Seven surprising reasons to use a Local Business
In recent years you cannot avoid having heard the phrase ‘buy local’. But what does it really mean and why should it apply to you?
It means that buying at a local business, rather than a large chain, brand or online business is better for the economy of your own community.
Research shows that £10 spent with a local independent shop means up to an additional £50 goes back into the local economy. This might be to pay for a drink at the pub or restaurant, money to employ a builder to paint the front of a house which in turn might contribute to an uplift in price and desirability, or even ballet lessons for a little girl.
Here are seven, sometimes surprising, reasons to use the premises, shop, or services of a local business.
More local spend – more local jobs
Just one shopping trip locally could have a really positive effect on the health of your local jobs too. Small, local businesses are surprisingly the largest employer of jobs nationally and provide the most local jobs to communities and often pay better than the big chains do.
More local spend – the more desirable your community will be to live
Independent businesses are run by real people and are not having to follow rules and algorithms applied by a board of directors hundreds of miles away. The shop front will be more creative, the stock will be different and designed to suit the needs of their local customers, the building itself will be better taken care of and add to the appeal and aesthetic of the community. A high street filled with unique, vibrant and colourful shops will attract more tourism and help to make the community a more popular and financially healthier area in which to live and work.
More local spend – less environmental impact
It might be that the local business that you want to use is within walking distance. Or it might be that the shop you buy your produce from is getting is from local suppliers. The builder or plumber that you choose will have bought his or her van locally and had it serviced locally too. They’ll be using a local accountant and bookkeeper, they will have probably made an effort to reduce their own environmental impact.
More local spend – more opportunities for entrepreneurship
Think wider than just lining the pocket of a local businessman. By supporting an entrepreneur you might have provided them with an opportunity they’d never have thought possible. In turn, they can offer apprenticeships and work experience to young people in the local community who will be inspired to start their own local business. What a boost the local community – and what a boost to the British economy as a whole!
More local spend – more charitable giving
Many local businesses will choose to support local causes and businesses – be it fundraising at the local school, sponsorships for an event, products to the local food bank or providing employment.
More local spend – more exciting innovation
Independent businesses have the freedom to innovate! Coffee shops are adding a book store or craft workshop, restaurants are adding cooking lessons, manufacturers are creating competitions for young engineer-wannabes.
More local spend – more healthy competition
A marketplace full of small businesses is a sure fire way to get prices competitive, get marketing strategies honed and advertising aligned. Take for example The Local Directory, leaflet distribution with us can reach over 100,000 homes and businesses and is fully GPS tracked for reassurance. Plus, if a local business books advertising for 12-months there is no commitment or contract tie-in. You simply pay the full rate card for the first 6 months of your booking, then benefit from a whopping 40% discount for the next 6 months! And you are free to leave at any time.
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