Inside Letchworth Garden City - March 2021 - Flipbook - Page 22
5 REASONS
TO SHOP
LMap-marker CAL
O
ne unexpected and welcome outcome from the
Coronovirus lockdown is the way in which many small
businesses have been able to adapt so that they can keep
trading. We’ve seen cafes become grocers, restaurants
develop collection and take-away services almost
overnight, shops develop online e-commerce stores, and
salon owners becoming YouTube stars as they share their
skills and expertise with ever widening and appreciative
audiences.
Even during times of crisis, the demand to shop can
open up new opportunities in many industries. At Amber
Publications we’ve always believed that shopping local
plays a vital role, and no matter what our world will look
like in the future we should all carry on supporting local
enterprise.
So here are 5 reasons why shopping local matters, now
more than ever.
1
It builds local communities &
strengthens local economies
When you support a local business, you are
supporting your friends, family, and neighbours. The
availability of local shops is especially important for the
elderly, vulnerable, young people and those without
access to private transport. Plus the more money that
local councils make in rent and rates, the more they
can spend on supporting local infrastructure and public
services.
2
Local small businesses add character
to towns and villages
A small business or boutique shop adds character
to the city or town when you walk or drive by. In a world
that has become increasingly dominated by chain stores,
a local business’s branding is unique and often quirky,
adding something different to your High Street, offering an
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alternative experience, and bringing a much needed breath
of fresh air into areas populated by generic stores and
companies.
3
Shopping local creates more job
opportunities and encourages
entrepreneurship
4
You get a more personalised service
5
It’s better for the environment
A local business that becomes a success will grow, and
as they grow they’ll recruit more staff from the local
population. Plus their success will encourage other local
businesses to open up to take advantage of the footfall,
encouraging other people to take the plunge and become
entrepreneurs too!
Local business owners are friendly and engaging,
they get to know their customers at a personal
level and can provide better advice about their products
and services. Local traders value your business more since
their survival depends on their good reputation and repeat
business. They can often adapt their products to suit your
personal requirements, or source something bespoke for
you, which big chains won’t do.
Shopping local means less mileage and petrol
costs for you, which helps reduce CO2 emissions.
Plus local shops often stock locally sourced goods which not
only supports the local economy but also reduces transport
times and costs of the goods, which impacts positively on
their carbon footprint.
We know its tempting to default to the big chains or
to buy online. But shopping locally is usually just as costeffective and convenient, plus you are supporting your local
community, rather than putting money in nameless and
faceless.
