After a new owner of a business I supported decided to stop using my services and take their web design to India, I thought I would write this article.
Might be a little out of spite, but damn it. You’re now sprouting off that you want people to vote for you in the local business awards! Support local? Prove it!
The Hawkesbury region is home to a vibrant tapestry of small businesses, each contributing to the unique character of our community. From our cafes and boutique shops to all those skilled (cashed up) tradies that bought up in Redbank, and surprisingly innovative start-ups and web design businesses (like fun/serious), these local enterprises form the backbone of the Hawkesbury economy and culture. As residents, the choices we make about where to shop and which services to use can have a profound impact on the health and vitality of our community.
This article explores the many ways in which supporting Hawkesbury’s small businesses can benefit us all.
Economic Benefits
When you choose to shop at a local business, you’re doing more than just making a purchase – you’re making an investment in your community. Studies have shown that for every dollar spent at a local business, up to 70 cents stays within the local economy, compared to only 40 cents when spent at a large chain store.
This local circulation of money has a multiplier effect. Local business owners are more likely to use local produce suppliers, accountants, office supplies, and other services, creating a network of economic activity that benefits the entire community.
Not just that, but, small businesses are significant job creators. They often provide employment opportunities for local residents, from students seeking part-time work to experienced professionals. This helps everyone get a leg-up.
The tax benefits of supporting local businesses shouldn’t be overlooked either. The more successful our local businesses are, the more they contribute to our local tax base. This increased revenue can be used to fund community services, improve infrastructure, and support local schools – all of which contribute to a higher quality of life for Hawkesbury residents.
Community Character
Small businesses play a crucial role in shaping the unique character of the Hawkesbury region. Unlike large chain stores that offer the same experience whether you’re in Sydney or Perth, our local businesses reflect the specific tastes, needs, and culture of our community.
These businesses often occupy historic buildings, preserving our architectural heritage while adapting it for modern use. They contribute to the vibrant streetscapes that make our towns and villages attractive to both residents and visitors. By supporting these businesses, we’re helping to maintain the distinct charm and character that makes the Hawkesbury region special.
Personal Service and Unique Products
One of the joys of shopping locally is the personalised service you receive. Local business owners and their employees often know their customers by name and can offer tailored recommendations based on individual preferences. This level of service creates a more enjoyable shopping experience and fosters a sense of community connection.
Local businesses are also more likely to offer unique products that you won’t find in big chain stores. Whether it’s locally produced food, handcrafted items, or services tailored to the specific needs of Hawkesbury residents, these offerings contribute to the diversity of our local economy and provide us with more interesting choices as consumers.
Environmental Impact
Supporting local businesses can also have positive environmental impacts. When we shop locally, we reduce the need for long-distance transportation of goods, which in turn reduces carbon emissions. Local food producers, for example, don’t need to ship their products across the country or overseas, resulting in fresher food with a smaller carbon footprint.
Many local businesses are also leaders in sustainable practices, check out a lot of them at the Richmond Good Food Market every Saturday. They may use locally sourced materials, implement energy-efficient measures, or offer eco-friendly products. By supporting these businesses, we’re encouraging and enabling environmentally responsible practices within our community.
Community Engagement and Support
Local businesses are often deeply embedded in the community fabric. They’re more likely to sponsor local sports teams like our beloved Hawkesbury Hawks Footy Club, donate to local charities, and participate in community events. This engagement goes beyond mere marketing – it reflects a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of the community in which they operate.
Plus, local business owners and employees are our neighbours, friends, and family members. They have a vested interest in the community’s success and are more likely to be involved in local issues and decision-making processes. By supporting our businesses, we’re strengthening our Hawkesbury community ties and fostering a sense of shared purpose.
Challenges Faced by Local Businesses
Despite their importance, small local businesses face significant challenges. Competition from large chain stores and online retailers can make it difficult for local businesses to compete on price alone, think about all these local butchers that have Woolies or Coles right across from them. These larger entities often have economies of scale that allow them to offer lower prices, even if they can’t match the personalised service and community benefits of local businesses.
The rise of online shopping has presented another challenge, particularly for retail businesses. The convenience of shopping from home can be tempting, but it’s important to remember the broader implications of these choices on our local economy and community. I know that Richmond Surf and Skate has to compete with Temu and Amazon all the time, but you just don’t get that local experience.
This is where community support becomes crucial. By consciously choosing to shop locally, even if it sometimes means paying a little more or making an extra trip, we can help ensure the survival and growth of our local business ecosystem. This support is an investment in the long-term health and character of our community.
So there you have it, folks!
Supporting Hawkesbury’s small businesses is about more than just where we choose to spend our money – it’s about investing in the fabric of our community. From boosting our local economy and preserving our unique character to enjoying personalised service and reducing our environmental impact, the benefits of shopping locally are numerous and far-reaching.
As residents of the Hawkesbury, we have the power to shape the future of our community through our daily choices. By making a conscious effort to support our local businesses, we’re not just getting the products and services we need – we’re building a stronger, more vibrant, and more resilient community for ourselves and future generations.
So next time you’re making a purchase, consider choosing a local Hawkesbury business. Your support can make a real difference in keeping our community thriving and unique.
Reach out anytime at ben@funserious.com.au.