Mayor's Message - Let's think local first

Buy local. It’s an easy phrase to say, but how many of us are walking the talk? As the 2018 Eurobodalla Business Awards approach, let’s think local first.

Give your local shops and your local suppliers an opportunity before heading online or out of the region. Give them a chance to sell you that dress or provide that kitchen quote.

We all hate to see local shops closing and complain at times when we can’t get what we need nearby. One way to counter that is to give our local businesses a shot so the money stays in our area.

The so-called Amazon effect has dramatically changed the way we shop. We can buy online with almost immediate results, and these days often with free delivery. The impact on traditional forms of commerce, particularly bricks and mortar retail, is all too real.

I understand that price can be a factor for shopping elsewhere, but consider the value of customer service from a local person, and the follow up sales service they can offer before you make a make a decision to buy outside our region.

It works both ways of course. We want our local businesses to give us the best possible service. That’s what will keep us coming back and telling our friends about your business.

I prefer to shop locally. I like to see, touch and try before I buy and know that what I’m getting is good value for money. I enjoy chatting with our local business people and their staff, and I like the feel good vibes I get supporting a local business.

Eurobodalla’s 2,763 businesses provide 12,224 local jobs. 1,898 of those jobs are in retail sector, the highest of any sector in Eurobodalla.

So before you next Add To Cart, think about your local mates and consider buying here at home.