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What it Means to Buy Local

Andi Fagen

As consumers, we are often marketed to “buy locally”, but do any of us REALLY understand what that entails?

Shopping local can actually increase product and service variety within a community, create more competition, and over time, stimulate a more diverse marketplace.  At Bindery 1 we are encouraging our community analyze what buying local actually looks like, and how it impacts lives.

What Is Buying Locally?

Often, we equate buying local with closing off access to great deals at large chains, or spending more money within our community’s footprint.  But in reality, shopping locally can start small with conscious decisions to support a business in your area that is owned by a member of the community. It isn’t purchasing products or services that aren’t competitive, it’s investing in partners within the community who may already offer a specific product or service.  At Bindery 1, we proudly purchase local, whenever possible; partner with members within our community.

What are Some Examples of Buying Local?

We’re all familiar with the concepts of buying locally for our produce and retail, but there are so many more examples to think of whenever reaching for your wallet. 

Buying local doesn’t mean every product or service, or sacrificing quality. In fact, many mechanics of these businesses may even be sourced outside of the community, such as coffee beans in the last example.  But that is the beauty of buying local, it’s not all black and white. However, we do know by being conscious of supporting local businesses, we are impacting our community.

Community Benefits to Buying Local

Each of these local businesses are owned and/or managed by people who work and most likely live with our communities, possibly even investing in the future by raising families here.  The tax dollars support our local organizations, improve our infrastructure like roadways, and improve the quality of life within our communities. Buying local is about keeping jobs in our communities, supporting our youth, and working together to improve our home.

Facts About Buying Local

Many studies have been published to indicate shopping at a locally owned business in your community helps to circulate dollars locally.  One study by the Indie Impact Study Series for Salt Lake City, Utah in August 2012 proved just that.  They found local retailers return around 52 percent of their revenue to the local economy, compared to just 14 percent for national chain retailers. In other words, they are invested in our community.

>> Search FuseDSM local business listings here. <<

How Can Businesses Buy Local

There are many reasons to join a chamber of commerce, and for many members, the main goal is business networking and gaining website links like our online directory. We also suggest stopping in to visit our member spotlights in FuseNews.  In addition, for residents of Des Moines and members of affiliate chambers of commerce, the DSM Partnership provides multiple small business resources via their website.

Why Buy Local

To sum up, shopping locally is important because it provides benefits beyond solely exchanging money for a product or service that will benefit your mission.  Our purchases help employ local residents, provide additional tax dollars for important programs, and foster larger opportunities for more diverse product and service offerings within our community. Next time you are shopping around for a product or service in Des Moines, give FuseDSM’s local business directory a look for the perfect fit.  We’re in this together!

Interested in Learning More About Our Chamber of Commerce?

We’re here to support your business goals and community aspirations. We work with our FuseDSM chamber to ignite business in our community.  Reach out on Facebook, email us, or ask to talk to a Firestarter Ambassador for a real insider view of the FuseDSM Chamber of Commerce.

>> Follow FuseDSM Events on Facebook <<