ACCORDING to a survey conducted by the Scotland Loves Local campaign, 73% of Scottish businesses believe that the support of local residents is crucial for their survival amid ongoing unprecedented challenges. The campaign is urging people to choose local this summer and back businesses in their community, emphasizing the role of grassroots action in fostering a fairer and more sustainable economy.
The research, carried out by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), which leads the Scotland Loves Local initiative, involved members and stakeholders, including Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). It revealed that 73% of respondents considered support from local residents as “extremely important,” while 13% described it as “very important.” Additionally, 90% believed that it was vital for people to “love local” and rally behind local businesses during the summer.
The survey also highlighted the circular impact of businesses within the local economy, with 75% of participants stating that they both purchase from and sell to other local enterprises. This interconnectedness further underscores the importance of bolstering local businesses.
The support for local businesses and the emphasis on choosing local can also have a direct impact on individual savings accounts. By prioritizing local shopping and supporting businesses in their communities, people can contribute to the growth and sustainability of the local economy. This, in turn, can lead to the creation of more jobs and increased prosperity, benefiting the overall financial well-being of individuals and the community.
When people choose to shop locally, they are not only supporting businesses but also promoting a thriving economic environment. As local businesses flourish, they generate revenue and contribute to the local tax base, which can help fund community projects and services. This can lead to improved infrastructure, better amenities, and an enhanced quality of life for residents.
Planning Minister Joe FitzPatrick emphasized the Scottish Government’s commitment to supporting town centers and local communities. He cited the additional £250,000 funding provided for the development of the Scotland Loves Local Gift Card, which facilitates shopping locally and backing businesses in towns and communities.
The Scotland Loves Local campaign originated in the aftermath of the initial Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, aiming to encourage long-term positive change by promoting support for local businesses and communities. STP Chair Leigh Sparks, who is also a retail academic and the Deputy Principal of the University of Stirling, emphasized the pivotal role of towns, villages, and local places in Scotland’s economic and social fabric. Sparks highlighted the challenges faced by consumers and businesses due to the cost of living and doing business, urging people to choose local to ensure the survival of shops and services.
Businesswoman Doris Lenaghen, owner of Whimsic Alley gift shop in Falkirk, emphasized the importance of local support and the significant impact it has on the high street. She encouraged people to shop locally and engage with the town center, emphasizing that even a small increase in spending with local businesses can make a substantial difference.
Kimberley Guthrie, interim Chief Executive of STP stated that choosing locals tackles the cost of living crisis, as it protects jobs, sustains services and creats community wealth, economically and socially. She called for a lasting change in behaviour, urging individuals to prioritize local businesses when it comes to shopping, outings, and business transactions. The Scotland Loves Local Gift Card is also being promoted as a means to keep spending within the local community, directly supporting local shops, attractions, and employment opportunities.
In conclusion, the Scotland Loves Local campaign is rallying support for local businesses in Scotland, with the survey findings underscoring the importance of local residents’ backing for the survival and prosperity of these enterprises. By choosing to shop locally and encouraging business within the community, individuals can contribute to the economic and social well-being of their towns and villages.
