The cheapest price is not necessarily the best deal. Networking is crucial for everyone in a community. Healthcare, energy, manufacturing, construction, food industries, etc. all need each other, why not support those industries right in your own town?
I know I'm much more likely to do business with someone who does business with me, it's just a reciprocating endeveor. Heck, my hairdresser is not cheap, in fact she's pretty expensive, and really, really good at what she does. I don't mind paying the going rate for excellent service, especially when she sends me clients as well.
When I need to contract to have something done around my home (that I can't or won't do myself), who do I call? I call the local guy, he's not cheap either, but do I get my money's worth? You bet! I don't get an excuse for why something didn't work out, or why that wasn't in the bid, I get what I wanted! And, if it fails for whatever reason, I know I can call and have my phone call returned, along with a fix ASAP.
It only makes sense that if the local economy is strong, my business will be strong as well. I like working with people I can look in the eye. Bless the international business community, but they really only care about my dollar, not me.
Want a strong local economy, buy good stuff and services from good people, right in your own home town!
The Quilting Realtor
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Many Dream Of Living In Montana I'm One of the Lucky One's That Already Do! Wanda Thomas Call or Text 406-698-8640 for help with all things Montana. |
That's very true. I believe in supporting your local economy.
It sort of works on a national level too, in relation to the world economy
Wanda, as a Chamber Ambassador in my city (Westlake Village, California) I see the influx of local business owners joining the chamber. It is a sign of the times. Businesses that have been in business for over 30 years and never been a member of the chamber are now joining. Why? Because their businesses are hurting and they are returning to the basics of "NETWORKING" to boost sales. I am a firm believer in networking and building relationships. Our local businesses depend on our support and patronage more than ever now due to the economic downturn. So I join you in saying "BUY LOCAL."
It was a pleasure reading your post this morning. Thanks for the contribution today
You are so right...
Buy locally..WE do.
Ginger
Ralph, Cheryl, Katiejo and Ginger--I know we all benefit from a healthy local economy. Tonight I'm gonna go out and spend $12 per ticket to watch some dirt track racing, featuring all American Muscle Cars. It'll be a great night!
Excellent advice -- I always try to go local.
Buying local helps your neighbors, the economy, and saves energy. A win win for all involved.
Really good advice and if we all ( well maybe just some) would do that, it would make a real difference. We should all start today and use a local business. We have just a great little produce market (open air) right down the street, but "on the wrong side" from the grocery store. I try to always go on there and buy. I win with great produce and they win with a sale, and our community wins with dollars remaining in the local pipeline!
Dick and Dixie Sells
In our small community there are some businesses who think just because they are local they can charge 2 prices for one product. When folks like your truly do some checking and find out they can buy for half the price and still get good (even better) quality by bringing in a vendor from over the hill, it doesn't sit well with the locals. I tell 'em, "I'm willing to pay a local premium, but not 2x the price for no more than equal quality". Sorry, nice theory that "always buy local", but in practice in a small town, it does not always work.
JD -- Just wondering how the local can charge 2 prices for one product? Doesn't sound like the "local" could stay in business! Small towns have really shrunk, business wise, and population wise as well. But I suppose some people like it that way. Buying over the hill or over the ocean, it does make a difference. I still buy local, but I'm not throwing money away. But I gotta say, if you don't buy local, you may be the last one in town, don't forget to shut off the lights!