We've all heard it before, “shop local.” But what does shopping locally actually mean and what are the benefits? We've done our research and comprised four reasons below why you should ditch the supermarkets and retail chains and keep it local!

1. IT STRENGTHENS YOUR LOCAL ECONOMY

Local businesses are independently owned by people who live in your town, so when you spend money in their stores and cafes, you’re supporting your neighbors and strengthening your community. Eating local means more money stays in your community. Local produce is fresher and tastes better because it is usually sold within 24 hours of being picked. When you shop local, the bulk of the money you spend and most of your taxes stay local. Supporting schools, police, fire departments, etc. Every dollar spent generates twice as much income for the local economy. When you shop local, your money is going towards local supplies, wages, services, taxes, and donation. That’s something the whole community can bank on!

2. IT CREATES JOBS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Plain and simple, local businesses create local jobs, and often, these jobs pay better than those at large corporations or chain stores. Not only do they create jobs within their own business, but these local businesses are the customers of other local businesses – printers, farmers, wholesalers – and in return are creating more opportunities for other local entrepreneurs.

3. IT CREATES A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT

Local businesses typically tend to consume less land and establish in city centers. They also carry more locally made products. This allows them to conserve energy and other resources, such as food or product packaging. And since they are local, they create less traffic, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.

4. IT BUILDS COMMUNITY AND SHAPES CHARACTER

Shopping local is a great way to build community. The more you shop local the more local business owners will come to know you, and you them. The casual encounters you enjoy at neighborhood businesses build community cohesiveness and local shopping can create more convenient retail experiences. Plus, local business owners do what they do because they are passionate about it! They are well informed about their products and know what they are selling. They will typically take more time to get to know you and go the extra mile to help and ensure you leave a satisfied customer! Last but not least, independent businesses help give your community its distinct personality that you love so much!