Shopping locally is about vibrant, healthy communities, unique products and dependable service. Here's how it works:
VIBRANT - Locally-owned businesses build strong communities. Revenue earned by locals circulates back into the local economy, enriching the whole community. Also, local business owners deliver more than what's in store; they contribute time, products and services to non-profit projects.
HEALTHY - Walkable neighborhoods are good for the environment. When retail stores and other businesses are located close to residential areas there is less automobile use, fewer parking lots, and more places for people to meet and interact.
UNIQUE - Distinctive character equals economic advantage. One-of-a-kind businesses - particularly when they market their local area collectively - attract shoppers.
DEPENDABLE - Local people are responsive. Small businesses begin when their owners feel they have a unique contribution to make; they see a gap that they can fill or a service that they can provide that will improve people's lives. They are responsive to the needs of their community and therefore they give dependably good service.
By shopping locally you access unique local products, quality service, and save time and money by not traveling out of town. Shopping locally means you understand that even if it costs a little more to buy locally, those dollars you spend in your own community are circulated back into the local economy and help to preserve Fernie's unique charm and character. Vibrant local businesses make Fernie a great place to be. Put your money where your house is!
The Beginning
ALL's Think Local First project began in the fall of 2005 with the launch of a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of shopping locally through the creation of a Think Local First membership card, local Retailer's Discount Guide, and attractive yet functional hemp shopping back that prominently displayed the campaign's logo. Following the success of this campaign and from the feedback we received from both retailers and the general public we wanted our next phase of Think Local First to be inclusive of the entire Fernie community (visitors and residents) as our original campaign had been directed solely at locals.
[Coupon Book Retailer Poster]
In order to accomplish this, we created Fernie's 2007 Think Local First Community Coupon Book which features the products and services of 44 local businesses for a savings of $1000s to coupon book purchasers. Launched in January 2007, 500 copies of the coupon book were printed and made available through a number of locations around the Fernie area. In addition to the great savings offered by businesses, the book contains a wealth of information regarding the importance of shopping locally and the effect of voting with your dollar'. Response to our coupon book has been very positive, with sales of 400+ books to date and valuable exposure and promotion to our local participating businesses. If you would like to purchase a book for yourself (coupons are valid until December 31, 2007), you may buy one at the Cottonwood Tree or other participating retailers for just $5.
As the Coupon Book was created thanks to funding through grants, we are currently in the process of conducting feedback with participating businesses to determine the viability of the project for 2008 as we will now require funding from other sources. Watch this website for more information on the next phase of ALL's Think Local First campaign as it becomes available.
Hosted a Fernie part of the North American wide "Shop Local" week being celebrated Dec. 3 - 9, 2007.
Visit our Community Coupon Book tab at the top of the page to find out where you can buy YOURS!