With so many big corporations around these days, it can be easy to forget there are many businesses out there providing the same service on a smaller scale and often offering a better-quality product or service. That’s why today’s Green Tips Advent Calendar window opens to give you reasons to shop locally and use local services.
So with Christmas just ten days away, and with many of us not having bought all of the treats and presents we want yet; we would like to show you that buying from faceless corporations aren’t good for you, your town or the environment. There are many reasons to shop local, including:
- Boosting the local economy – When you shop locally you contribute to the vibrancy and sustainability of your community. More of your money stays in the community, which helps create jobs and goes back into the local economy, supporting schools, charities, and other essential services.
- Reducing your carbon footprint – Local stores often stock goods that are produced locally, the more locally sourced produce equals fewer transport miles which drastically reduces the amount of co2 emissions in this country. Unnecessary food transportation contributes to over 35% of the UK co2 output.
- Reducing pollution and traffic congestion – When shopping locally, people travel less distance and often walk or cycle to do their shopping, significantly reducing the amount of air pollution and traffic congestion – all of which benefits your local environment.
- Better customer service – We have all had bad or no customer service, the solution is to shop elsewhere. Local business owners and employees are invested in the success of their businesses, fostering a sense of loyalty and trust. This interpersonal connection is often harder to establish in larger, more impersonal retail environments.
- Preserving Character and Culture – Local businesses contribute to the distinctive character and culture of a community. They add to the diversity of offerings and help maintain the unique identity that sets each town or neighbourhood apart.
- Unique products – Small businesses often offer unique, handcrafted, or locally sourced products that you might not find in larger, chain stores. This gives you the opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind items and support the creativity of local artisans.
- Quick and Convenient – Shopping locally can be quick and convenient, especially for daily essentials. Local businesses are often situated closer to residential areas, reducing travel time and making it easier to access what you need.
- Celebrating your community – Shopping local allows you to embrace what makes your community unique. This can result in a more personalised shopping experience, with recommendations tailored to your preferences and needs. It also fosters a sense of community and familiarity.
- Lower environmental impact – Local businesses make more local purchases, which helps sustain town centres and reduce sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution.
In essence, shopping locally is a powerful way to contribute to the well-being of your community, enjoy a more personalised shopping experience, and make environmentally conscious choices. It’s an investment in both the local economy and the unique character that makes your community special.
The alternative is that our local high street becomes a “Ghost Town”, which would force our community to have no choice but to shop with major national supermarkets or the online giants. Use it or lose it, shop locally and use local services this Christmas. Have a great one everyone!
Find Local Shops and Services
We have produced Wellingborough Eco Map, a map and guide of environmentally friendly services and facilities available locally. These guides were originally taken from a previous Advent Calendar in 2020 to try to help people support good businesses after the pandemic. There have been updates since, including removing a few of the businesses that have unfortunately closed.