Go Local

This week marks the eighth annual Buy Local Week. Communities across the country kicked off the event on November 6. It will continue through December 5. Business and citizen networks, such as Homegrown El Paso and the New Mexico Green Chamber of Commerce - Las Cruces Chapter, celebrate the week by educating people about the benefits of shopping locally and encouraging people to shop at locally owned and independent stores before turning to chain retailers.

Economists forecast that U.S. consumers will spend approximately $445 billion during the 2010 holiday season. Investing that money in the local community is important; studies have shown that money spent at local, independent stores re-circulates in the the community up to three times more. Buying local boosts prosperity and economic security within the community rather than supporting corporations that own big-box stores and out-of-town chains in several ways: 

• Strengthens the local economy: Local business owners buy more often from other local businesses. Therefore, the money spent is retained in the community. In addition, most job growth begins with local, independent businesses.
• Creates a healthier environment: Buying items made closer to home cuts down on fossil fuel use, reducing the carbon impact. Reduced transportation costs can also mean more affordable goods. Small businesses, which are typically located in central business districts, also have less of an impact on local ecosystems as compared to larger retailers located in strip malls or stand-alone buildings.
• Retains local flavor: Experiences at local establishments are completely unique, expressing the local fl­avor of the area. 
• Increases community involvement: Local business owners are more likely to get involved in and contribute to community efforts than corporations that own big-box stores.

What will you do to honor the eighth annual Buy Local Week? We have many local businesses, including aída S cuisine, that would welcome your business and encouragement during the holiday shopping season. Also, do you have any favorite local businesses? We'd love to hear about them.