Reasons to be cheerful.... (written by Graham Gardner, Aspiren.net)
We know somewhere deep down that supporting your local independent business makes sense, yet we find ourselves using the big chains out of "convenience." If we're not careful our shopping habits can leave us feeling guilty. So what about turning that round to a positive?
Here are my top reasons for supporting your local business...
- They bring character into a local area... All high streets are in danger of looking the same as each other, all national (and international) corporate brands. Where's the local character?
- They bring prosperity into a local area... Did you know that for every £100 spent with a national retailer only £13 stays in the local economy? That changes to £45 when you spend your money with a local retailer. Your pounds make a difference.
- They increase community well being... Local businesses are often the main supporters of community events, providing prizes for raffles, organising time, goods and services as well as a whole host of other ways they contribute to communities across the UK. Big businesses might sponsor the premier league and the olympics but just remember who sponsors your local under 10's football team. I'll bet it will a local small business. Local businesses create a economic and social web of relationships that sustain local communities.
- They create jobs for the local economy... Local businesses create local jobs. FACT. And they are often higher paid, with great prospects of personal development as the company grows.
- They are environmentally friendly... Did you know the average person travels 893 miles a year to do their weekly shop? Strong local businesses mean we travel less to shop. Saving the environment. Saving money on fuel. Reducing pollution.
- They encourage entrepreneurship... The Government believes that we need to create many more businesses to help us get out of the economic mire we are in. Have a strong local business sector provides young people the role models they are looking for. Yes, they look to the Bransons and Sugars of this world too, but seeing the success of someone from a similar background is priceless.
So... Why are we not shouting? I think it is in part because we have little faith in ourselves.
It feels a little woolly, maybe we are kidding ourselves? We need proof!
We have developed a simple online tool that will help your local business evidence that you contribute to the local economy, local jobs, the community, the well being of your staff and the environment.
The Local Impact Measurement Tool (http://aspiren.net/LIM/taskus/ ) is really easy to use. It doesn't take long to do. It provides a wonderful body of evidence that you can use to shout about!
Let's start shouting about how important we are!
