Studies show that 68% of Canadians believe in the importance of shopping local. Which is a powerful economic force, since 66¢ of every dollar spent locally STAYS local.
This superpower creates what is called the boomerang effect: Money spent locally means a reinvestment in the community through spending or donations.
At Avant-Garden, here’s how we support local:
– Local Charities (This year, we are supporting the New Canadians Centre by donating $3 from every Peace by Chocolate candy bar sold.)
– Local events (We often donate products for organizations’ fundraisers.)
– Local media (Our Garden Gate videos are media buys through Global Television/CHEX-TV.)
– Local magazines
– Local choirs
– Local artisans
^^^ That last point is the foundation of our business philosophy. ^^^
The artists who make the beautiful gifts, crafts, cards and textiles and artwork we carry in the shop are hardworking Kawarthans and Canadians representing almost every province.
Their one-of-a-kind work is better quality than anything you’ll buy from Amazon and best of all, we know their stories.
So ask us about the makers – we’re happy to share their stories because a) they’re often fascinating, and b) their experiences and personalities are usually what made us choose to carry their work.
And when you purchase locally made goods, you can be proud to know an artist will then have money in their pocket to then put back into our community.
So maybe think twice before ordering from Amazon or Etsy: if it comes from overseas, the money is long gone and the shipping and travel costs take a toll on the planet.
It IS the thought that counts
When gifting, they say it’s the thought that counts; but it’s also your purchasing choices. Make them count. ~