SHOP LOCAL AND BOOST YOUR COMMUNITY

Local shops are the beating heart of our communities. They bring diversity to the area and are a focal point for us socially. Each one contributes to the charm and personality of our towns, villages, city centres and suburbs.

But in these days of massive shopping centres and browsing online, we can sometimes forget how much we benefit from their presence. Here we break down just why it’s so important to keep shopping locally.

MORE MONEY IN THE LOCAL ECONOMY

According to a study by the Federation of Small Businesses, for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business, 63p is re-spent in the local area, compared to 40p for a larger business. So, when you shop locally, more money stays in the community. That in turn creates jobs and supports the local services and infrastructure that we rely on.

ORIGINAL AND UNIQUE PRODUCTS

Local businesses often source their goods from the surrounding area, which means they offer fresh, quality and original products that reflect the local culture and identity.

Shopping locally can help you discover new and exciting items that you might not find elsewhere. Whether it’s food, clothing, gifts or art, shopping locally can help you find something special and unique. There’s also an environmental benefit, as products sourced locally have typically travelled less distance to reach the shelves. So, there’s a lower carbon footprint, meaning good news for the planet.

A MORE INTIMATE EXPERIENCE

Shopping locally also comes with a more personal touch than your average shopping experience. Local business owners and staff get to know their customers well. Shop with them often enough and you could be rewarded for your loyalty with discounts and offers. They’re always happy to offer advice and may be able to tailor their products and services to suit your needs. The staff at your local shops are part of the same community as you. They’ll know some of the same people and will often have similar interests to you. Get out to your local shops and you may not just pick up a bargain – you may make a friend for life as well.

On that same note, shopping locally can be a really sociable event. Instead of trying to decide on your next purchase alone and online, join up with friends and make a proper day of it. That way you can grab a bargain while also catching up on all the gossip and spending time with people close to you. While you’re at it, visit some other local attractions. You can sample some culture with a trip to a museum, or you can enjoy a cuppa and some cake in a cafe. Maybe you want to grab lunch in a restaurant or take a relaxing stroll in the local park. Whatever you do, you’re sure to have a great time and get the most out of the place where you live.

SUPPORT FOR SMALLER BUSINESSES

One of the best parts of shopping locally is supporting smaller businesses that are the backbone of the UK economy. Small and medium-sized businesses account for 99.9% of all private sector firms, 61% of employment, and 53% of turnover, according to the Federation of Small Businesses. Shop locally to help them survive and thrive. It means more jobs in your area with more people and money staying there to create a market for more small businesses.

Shopping locally benefits you, the business, the local economy and the environment. Not only will you make some great finds, you might just pick up a bargain and bump into some friendly faces along the way.

So, grab your bags and pop to the shops. We promise you won’t be sorry.