Locally owned businesses have the expertise and products for your every day shopping. From handcrafted culinary delights and locally produced goods of all kinds to expertly curated products from top rated suppliers. These small businesses are the heartbeat of every community; they are a major reason of what makes our towns and cities great.

Right now, locally owned and operated businesses need your support more than ever.  Here are five reasons you should look to shop local first:

  1. More money stays in the local economy - for every $100 you spend at locally owned businesses, $68 will stay in the community.

  2. Embrace local culture - the unique character of the local community is defined in large part of the businesses that reside there and the people who run them.

  3. Create local jobs - small businesses are the largest employer nationally and with your support, they grow and employ more people in the community.

  4. Better customer service - locally owned businesses are run by those that are passionate about the products & services they provide so you get expert advice every time.

  5. More choice - small businesses pick the items and products they sell based on what they know you like and offer the widest array of unique products.

To learn more about what you can expect when visiting Ontario’s Southwest and how businesses are trying to keep you safe and following government guidelines, click here.

Start shopping today at these regional partners