Buy Local: Why It's Important

Post #23

As people continue scurrying around, completing (or starting?) their holiday shopping, there’s a factor you might not have previously considered.  In addition to everyone’s wish list and appropriate colors and sizes, you have an opportunity to help the local economy and protect jobs.

In countless ways, the Internet has brought the world closer together.  What it has hurt, however, is local commerce.

Did you know that every dollar spent recirculates within the community an additional six to eight times, according to Rockville Economic Development Inc. (REDI)?

In addition to individual consumers choosing to support local businesses, businesses can also focus on supporting their local colleagues.  Rockville’s Legacy Hotel set a great example.  By buying their cleaning supplies locally, they were able to “go green” by reducing the emissions of long-distance shipping and delivery.  (I suspect there was also a hope for some reciprocity through referrals to their lovely hotel!)

In addition to Rockville, other area jurisdictions (including Annapolis/Anne Arundel County, Alexandria, and Silver Spring) have emphasized buying locally.  Others around the state and around the country are currently exploring the same concept.

REDI also informed me that Montgomery County government requires its County departments to purchase 10% from local registered (www.montgomerycountymd.gov/lsbrp) small businesses.  I would love to read some studies as to the compliance, price competitiveness, and impact of such a policy.  Should it be emulated elsewhere for its impact?

Regardless of the long-term prospects for policy incentives, there are many local shop-owners who are hoping to see you (and your credit cards!) in the coming days.  Perhaps you can help them to have a happy holiday season as well?

I would love to hear from you, dear Blog reader!  How conscious are you of patronizing local businesses and family-owned eateries?  Should it be a mandate or goal in government spending?  You may send an email to Blog@CherylKagan.org or click on the "Comments" link below to express your views.  Please be sure to indicate which post (#23) you're addressing.

Thanks for reading.  I will post again soon.