Keeping It Local
Submitted by Cheri Davidson on behalf of City of Kawartha Lakes
There’s no doubt about the impact that COVID-19 is having on our community.
Small business owners have been hit hard by the restrictions, cost of safety protocols and the ongoing uncertainty of the pandemic. Consumer confidence is an issue, as virtually everyone from students to seniors are feeling the impacts.
In response, the municipality, with the support of all four Chambers of Commerce (Fenelon Falls, Coboconk, Norland and Area, Bobcaygeon, Lindsay and District) and the Lindsay Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA), is leading a multi-faceted campaign to encourage awareness and action for shopping local.
‘Shop Local’ campaign is multi-faceted
The campaign began late summer with the launch of marketing templates for business owners to download and customize, using the campaign based on longstanding adages such as ‘There’s no place like home’ and ‘Actions speak louder than words’. These familiar phrases reinforce the notion that when times are uncertain, traditional values will prevail and sustain us. Businesses and organizations from Fenelon Falls right across Kawartha Lakes are running with the campaign in their own way.
In addition to influencing consumer habits about where to garner services, dining and retail shopping, the campaign aims to build digital marketing skills among local entrepreneurs so they can use tools such as Google My Business and social media to grow their sales. To date about 60 businesses are participating – a great start in just six weeks.
We’re expecting to see more seasonal residents remaining in Kawartha Lakes this winter, which means a new opportunity to encourage local shopping for the holiday season and into the toughest months for most retailers.
A mix of television, radio, print and online advertising is running through the end of this year to encourage local purchasing across sectors such as retail, hospitality, personal services, agriculture (farmers’ markets and local food) and recreation. This advertising is being furthered complimented by media articles and social media sharing.
What does ‘shopping local’ look like?If each of us bought one more holiday gift from a local business, or used one more local service provider this year than we did last year, it would make a considerable difference to our economy. Or just once this season, before you click online to order from a large company, ask yourself if you can click or visit a Kawartha Lakes business instead? There are approximately 6000 businesses across Kawartha Lakes, and now more than ever, they are working hard to keep you safe while meeting your needs. With options such as telephone and online ordering, curbside pickup, delivery/takeout and safe in-store shopping/dining, it’s easy to think and act local.
How shopping local gives back
When you buy goods and services from locally owned or franchised businesses, more money stays and circulates in the community.
Local supply chains are strengthened because small businesses usually source materials and services from other local businesses, service providers and farms.
Having a strong local business community also helps grow the local tax base.
These same businesses give generously to local charities and non-profit organizations that are the heart of our community.
It means there’s a better chance those unique businesses will be there to serve you and your family for years to come.
Thanks for pausing before your purchase – you’ll be making a difference.
Find out more at www.shopkawarthalakes.ca
