Supporting local and small businesses

By Michaela Pointon

During the past couple of years, we have all become familiar with the phrase ‘shop local’. But what are the benefits of shopping locally?

Supporting local and small businesses helps to keep revenue inside towns and cities, ensuring local start-ups can continue, despite inflation and possible financial hardship. Small acts such as purchasing your fruit and veg from a local fruit shop or buying bread from a locally owned bakery, all adds to the longevity and success of family-owned businesses. Plus, by purchasing local you get the bonus of feeling of participating in helping your community continue to thrive. Many people may feel time poor, therefore opting for more ‘convenient’ options such as big-name supermarkets. Allocating an extra hour of shopping time to your typical Sunday grocery shop means you can add in necessary extra shops. You could also opt for an enjoyable shopping outing with friends. Find a time which suits you best and grab a coffee at your favourite local coffee shop before heading to the bakery and fruit shops. There’s many locally owned clothing shops and home decor places to visit too, with options to suit everyone and every style. Websites such as neatplaces.co.nz or christchurchnz.com provide lists of locally owned businesses specifically in Christchurch for you to explore. Getting into the habit of making a conscious choice to shop locally means you will feel better about your purchases, as well as supporting the cycle of small business. CT Here are a few local Christchurch businesses to check out:

Grizzly Baked Goods

20 Welles Street, Christchurch

Committed to bringing integrity back to the commercial bakery, the team ensures every baked good is crafted with care and passion. Make sure to visit Grizzly for one of their infamous bagels, freshly baked bread loafs or pimped up croissants.

Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters

254 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch

Stop by Unknown Chapter to grab your Sunday morning coffee, knowing you are supporting traceable, ethically sourced straight from the farmers or transparent trading partners, as well as supporting a local business to thrive.

Funky Pumpkin Fruit and Vegetable Retail Store

290c Colombo Street, Christchurch

The home of fresh, fabulous and funky fruits and vegetables. The Funky Pumpkin sources the most delicious and delightfully fresh produce. There is the added bonus of affordable prices and supporting a locally owned business.

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Phone. 03 374 9425 Email. racing@supakarts.co.nz www.supakarts.co.nz