Why Shopping Small at Christmas means the world...
By now you’ve definitely heard of the ‘Shop Small’ movement. Supporting local, smaller businesses in your area is an absolute no-brainer. Doing so boosts the local economy, stops us from putting even more money into Tycoons pockets, and you’re very likely to get yourself something much better than a mass-manufactured, completely un-unique item.
Still need convincing? Here are some excellent reasons to shop small (especially at Christmas).
1. It reduces your carbon footprint.
One single parcel from ‘Shmamazon’ can have travelled thousands of miles before it even reaches your local postie! That’s before you even consider the ethical implications of using such large companies and supporting their practices.
Considering a smaller local business immediately cuts down on this (and your shipping fees) by removing the need for transport.
Local, smaller businesses are also much more likely to consider their own ethics when sourcing core materials and their manufacturing processes.
All in all, it’s a win for everyone and the planet!
2. Creates local jobs.
This goes without saying but boosting our local economies is becoming increasingly important. In the wake of Brexit, unemployment is at an all-time high. Local businesses boost our economy by offering jobs to the community and increasing traffic and footfall to areas that might previously have had a high street full of chains.
3. You get better customer service.
Customer service is much more important to smaller businesses as they rely entirely on your local custom. You’re always going to get a much more friendly and interesting experience in your local fishmongers than at the conglomerate supermarket down the road- and probably a better deal!
4. Stick it to the man!
There's not much more that needs to be said here. The people behind big businesses are so often corrupt and cruel, with bad manufacturing practices and often skewed political stances. We’ve all heard the stories and seen the news, shopping small means you can get to know the person behind it and make the choice for yourself!
5. Supporting local not-for-profits and social enterprises.
Many local businesses support home-grown not-for-profits and charities that are relevant to that area, so by shopping locally you are helping to increase the number of local donations. It goes without saying that bigger companies and chains also support charities, but if your preference is to support not-for-profits and charities in your area, your best bet is to shop from businesses down the road.
Check out https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/ to see the real stats behind big businesses.