Why is it important
to drink local coffee? For that matter, why is it important to support ANY
local business? The simple answer is, it promotes growth and economic stability
in our town.
A spokesperson
at an organization in Texas called Homegrown says,
"Dollars spent at community-based merchants create a multiplier effect in
the local economy, meaning that from each dollar spent at a local independent
merchant, three or more times as much typically goes back into the local
economy compared to a dollar spent at chain-owned businesses." In other
words, the more money spent in the community, the more money stays in the
community.
Homegrown says,
"It's as easy to accept themes promoted in those corporate ads as it is to
overlook the values independent businesses provide us, both personally and in
our communities." The attractiveness of a chain store
or restaurant is usually its prices. Often they can offer services or
product for cheaper. However the local business often make up for a higher
price in product quality and customer service.
In fact, as a
small, local business our self, we know the impact of buying local first hand. If
you were to visit the North Pole Coffee Roasting Company’s office you'd hear
the phrase, "Customer Love".
We throw this term around a lot when it comes to our work and expectation of
what we want each and every customer's experience with North Pole Coffee
Roasting Company to be. Our customers are what makes our business continue and
if we don't take care of them, someone else will. We pride ourselves on things
like our fresh roasted coffee beans, American made products, community support,
and non-profit organizations fundraising programs. These are just a few qualities
about us that we work hard at to maintain consistency and support. When people
buy one of our products to enjoy, serve, or as a gift they are making a
commitment to support a local business through this choice and therefore
continuing the circle of support for our great community.
When we as a
community support local business, we support our local economy, our town, our
neighbors and friends; it's an economic eco-system of growth. When we
support local we invest in our community; the place where we spend most of our
time, where our children will grow up. We also preserve our
town's personality. Did you know a town has a personality? Well it does!
When you think of your home town or the town where you currently live, what
comes to mind? Is it the mega store? The national/global chain of restaurants?
Chances are it is the “mom and pop” business or the community events
that makes you proud to say this is “my town"!
Sometimes a
local option just isn't available. Does all this mean we can't shop at any
chain stores or frequent our favorite chain restaurants? Of course not! But
buying local is a commitment to make a local choice when possible and support
businesses that support the foundation of the town where you live. The "buying
local" goal…when possible…gives back to our community in a way that makes sense. Not only will you be putting your money where your mouth
is, you’ll be putting it close to your heart…”My Hometown, USA!”
From Your Friends at North Pole Coffee.
Resources:
Anderson, Mac. Customer Love: Great Stories About Great
Service. Simple Truths LLC. 2008.
Homegrown El
Paso.
