Festive treasures are in your town
In a fast-paced modern world where we have everything we need at the tips of our fingers, it can be easy to forget our local businesses at the heart of our community.
These days when in need of an item we often automatically look to our computer windows rather than browse our main street shop fronts.
Of course it can be more than tempting to give in to the enticement of finding a steal online with next day shipping.
But, then again, what can be quicker than taking a short jaunt down the road to the locals at Christmas time?
Shop in the nearby butchers or fishmongers for the freshest locally sourced produce you could ever want - they are guaranteed to have just what you need to make your festive feast a hit.
Gander at the treasure trove of intricate handmade gifts available at the local boutiques and maybe buy that one-off lovingly crafted figurine for that special person in your life.
And why not nip into your local cafe or bistro for a spot of brunch and a good cup of tea?
When you shop local you can also be sure that you will be greeted with a friendly smile and chit chat, adding a more personal touch to your experience. Aside from ensuring your purchases are the creme of the crop, shopping locally ensures a thriving economy for you, your hometown, and all who live there.
Your local trader, a noble one at that, has stood the test of time so why not give them some love for a change?
A community is like a well knitted blanket, bound together by the threads of our local people and businesses alike. Just like a cherished blanket, our community can provide us with the warmth, protection and comfort we need, especially at Christmas time. And this Christmas the local shops have a treasure trove of quirky, one-off gifts.
Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren’t available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.
When it comes to gifts, quirky one-off items are a major plus of independent shops.
There’s also the hyper-local gift choice: independent bookshops often stock titles by local authors that aren’t yet on the shelves of the major chains.
Local markets help foster the talents of the next generation of British designers and retailers. Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs.
If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too. Markets also often give space to community groups and social enterprises.
You might also get a better deal or some good advice.
Major retailers have the advantage of economies of scale and can afford to slash prices and offer reduced costs.
However, it’s easy to waste money on products you end up not liking.
You can hardly crack open a bottle of fizz in a supermarket and do a quick taste test.
Neither can you do this online.
At independent retailers, however, it’s easier to ask to sample a product. Many independent off-licences throw regular wine tasting events, while farm shops, bakeries and delis hand out tasters as a matter of course.
So this year, make the most of the last minute offers you find in your local high street.
Shopping locally ensures a thriving economy for your home town