As part of this summer’s launch of the Northumberland “Buy Local” initiative, consumers are being asked to complete a short survey about their local shopping habits.
Campaign organizers are looking to hear about Northumberland County residents’ purchasing preferences and what would encourage them to shop local more often.
“The goals are to encourage residents to shift more of their everyday spending to businesses right here at home,” Kate Campbell, Northumberland County’s director of communications, told kawarthaNOW.
“In June, the Prosper in Northumberland task force launched the Buy Northumberland movement, an initiative focused on enhancing our local economy, and supporting our neighbours, friends and family members who own or work at local businesses in Northumberland,” Campbell said.
The initiative is a response to recent economic uncertainty and trade tariffs. The information gathered from consumer survey “will help shape future programs and better support the local shopping experience in Northumberland,” the county noted.
“The Prosper In Northumberland initiative aims to unite our community in support of one another during these uncertain economic times,” Rob Day, Northumberland County’s manager of economic development and co-chair of the Prosper in Northumberland operating group, said in a statement.
“We encourage everyone to get involved and create meaningful impact by redirecting spending locally.”
The “Prosper in Northumberland” initiative is a 30-plus member task force comprised of representatives from local business associations, chambers of commerce, municipalities, media and businesses from throughout Northumberland.
In addition to the task force’s consumer survey, the campaign features a Buy Local pledge, business research surveys, and a variety of business supports, which are aimed at encouraging residents to shift more of their everyday spending to businesses in Northumberland.
VIDEO: Take the Northumberland Buy Local Pledge
The Buy Local pledge asks consumers to consider signing a digital pledge, which is a commitment to redirect a portion of their average monthly spending towards local businesses in Northumberland.
The Buy Local pledge is open to residents, business owners, and local workers from across Northumberland and offers a flexible commitment where participants can choose to redirect $10 to $100 per month to local businesses. Whether the local spending is on groceries, services, dining, experiences or gifts, “it all makes a powerful difference in the community,” a media release noted.
“For those already doing most of their shopping locally, signing the pledge is a great way to show your support and encourage others to join the movement.”
Meanwhile, Buy Local champions encourage consumers to take the survey, which is available until Wednesday (July 30) at buynorthumberland.ca.
“Buying local keeps money circulating in our communities and supports the small businesses that give Northumberland its character and heart,” said Northumberland County Warden Brian Ostrander in a statement.
The county said more information will be shared in the coming months, including future survey results, opportunities for business-to-business partnerships, and additional business resources.
