Over the last several years, there has been a shift in consumer purchasing behaviour, with many people opting for the 'easy option' and purchasing things online via large stores and businesses. However, this year our High Streets have seen the additional pressure of the Coronavirus pandemic, with huge numbers needing to 'shut up shop' for many months.
Whilst many were able to quickly launch an online offering, there remains no doubt that our High Streets have been hit and are feeling the pressure, and we're now all more aware than ever of the importance to '#ShopLocal'.
From finding the best local produce to boosting the economy in your area, here’s 7 reasons why it’s good to shop local and support your local High Streets:
1. Help to boost your local economy
Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, the epitome of the UK high street and often large tourist attractions - but what you may not know is that shopping at a local business, rather than a large chain, is actually better for the economy of your community.
To ensure a strong and sustainable local economy foundation people need to buy locally. Research shows that £10 spent with a local independent shop means up to an additional £50 goes back into the local economy. This is simply because the nearby shop owners, who you are spending your money with, will then put that money back into your local community by going into local pubs and restaurants etc, thus circulating the money and allowing your community to thrive.
2. Save jobs, and create even more
Supporting our high streets helps to create jobs within local communities, supporting often young and disadvantaged people to find employment.
Helping to grow the number of jobs in our local areas makes for a better place to live and work, which then creates a healthy economy for the community.
3. One-of-a-kind products
Small and local businesses often stock items which are made locally and aren’t available elsewhere else, providing a great range of choice and unique products that bring much-needed originality and variety into communities – including rare finds and items that aren’t mass produced, and what could be more charming than that!
4. Reduced environmental impact
There are many environmental benefits to shopping within your local area, that are often forgotten. For instance, local shops often source their goods locally, helping to reduce their carbon footprint.
When shopping local, people are also more likely to walk or cycle to get there – which generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution. Also, much local produce is likely to be chemical and pesticide free.
5. Support the Arts!
Small businesses support creativity! Often, small businesses and boutiques sell and display art from local artists. These are one of kind pieces you can’t find anywhere else.
Shopping locally also promote entrepreneurship within your local community. Supporting your local, start up businesses helps them to grow their business over time and adds to their overall success in business.
6. Preserving the heart of the Community
A thriving high street is key to boosting the potential of a village or town where people can socialise as well as shop. Local businesses also generate revenue to support council services such as libraries, parks and roads that benefit communities across the UK.
7. Great deals!
People might be surprised to see just how competitive the prices are in your local shops. Independent retailers often reward regular customers, while others often provide great deals that can’t be found in major outlets – meaning people save money as they spend.
Consumers can also save money eating out - the Eat Out to Help Out discount scheme is being provided by the government, saving diners up to £10 per head on eat-in meals on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in one of the 73,000 participating businesses.
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