I am a big believer in buying local whenever possible. I admit that I shop at chains for convenience and pricing just like everyone else. I have to admit though, that we are not huge contributors to the economy in general. We try to live our lives and run our business in a more eco friendly way, and that means putting consumerism on the back burner. After all, the greenest product is the one you never buy. That being said, there are always things we need. I got this in my inbox from COSE (Council Of Smaller Enterprises). I felt compelled to share it with you:
Buy Local and Celebrate Your Independents
Buy Local Week, July 4-11, is a regional rally and awareness generating program stressing the importance of purchasing from locally owned and operated businesses. Sponsored by I Buy NEO, this program is designed to engage, educate and empower people to take action in their communities by spending locally whenever possible. Now more than ever, it is critical that people understand the impact of purchases as simple as buying fruit, ordering pizza, or getting their hair done. Our local businesses are what drive jobs, economic growth and income for a stable tax-base.
Keeping our local businesses healthy is what will keep our economy healthy. And if everyone does their part, significant impacts can be made.
Take the Buy Local Challenge
If everyone in Northeast Ohio (NEO) pledges to redirect $100 of planned spending to locally owned businesses during Buy Local Week July 4th through July 11th, we can make a significant difference – an amazing additional $48 million dollars will be pumped into the local economy.
$68 of each $100 spent at locally owned establishments stays in the local economy, versus $43 if you shop at a national chain. And with growing businesses, come additional jobs – in fact 60-80% of job growth comes from local businesses.
Pledge to redirect $100 of your planned spending to a locally owned business. Visit ibuyneo.com and fill out the online pledge card. Together, we can make a difference.
I urge you to support local farmers, markets, growers, and retailers as you plan your 4th of July celebrations. Keep as much of your money here at home and make Cleveland a richer place to be!
