In case you needed some reaons: Here is our top 7. Enjoy!
1. Your spending will boost the local economy & housing
Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every $1 spent with a small or medium-sized business $0.63 stayed in the local economy, compared to $0.40 with a larger business.
Did you know that streets populated with thriving independent businesses have been shown to boost the price of nearby homes. So in a way, shopping local is an investment in your investment. Cool
2. It is the ethical & the healthy choice
Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating turkey and carrots that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local butchers, bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local farmers, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.
3. They sell 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. Give your niece or nephew a handmade toy and at least it won't be identical to everything they already have.
Local shops also support local artists and designers, food producers and growers, so you're buying products absolutely unique to your area.
4. You will be supporting Canadian entrepreneurs
Artisan markets help foster the talents of the next generation of Canadian designers and retailers. There is a constant turnover of new products, and sellers listen to customers' demands. If a certain pie filling is popular, for example, a pie company will respond to that and quickly supply more of them – and you can suggest things too, so you can even have a bit of influence over the products on sale.
5. You can help build communities
Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.
Markets also often give space to community groups and social enterprises, says Ellie Gill, campaign manager at
Love Your Local Market. "Markets can have a community value, as there is often a social purpose to stalls – they can be public spaces as well as retail outlets."
6. You might get a better deal or some good advice
Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.
7. You can see it and try before you buy
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 actually liking. When you buy it local you can see touch and smell it, literally.
During the summer, your air conditioner must work harder to cool hot air from sunny windows. Install ENERGY STAR®-qualified windows and use curtains and shade to give your air conditioner and energy bill a break.
