We always hear how important it is to shop local and support small businesses. Now more than ever that statement rings true. The COVID-19 public health crisis will create incredibly difficult financial challenges to our locally owned and operated stores, services, and restaurants.
We encourage everyone to follow the guidelines of to government and health officials and high-risk populations should continue to exercise extreme caution, but we are all in this together and must do what we can to help each other.
Here are a few meaningful ways you can still shop local and help some of your favourite Cochrane businesses during this challenging time.
- Order take out
Call in your order and schedule a time for pick-up and carry-out. Restaurants have very strict sanitation laws they need to uphold, and most businesses are going above and beyond their requirements at this time. Plus, this is one less meal you have to make!
- Buy gift certificates to use later
As a promise to return to support them, purchase gift card from your favourite local shops and restaurants. This puts money in the pocket of your favourite store owner today and helps them to cover operating expenses and help assure a strong tomorrow.
Pay it forward – Consider buying gift cards now to gift to health care providers, service staff, or teachers!
- Social currency
Spending more time online? Engage with your favourite businesses – it doesn’t cost a thing! Like, Comment, and Share their social media posts. It’s free to you, but it helps to remind businesses that we haven’t forgotten about them.
- Leave a good review on Yelp or Google Reviews
Did you have a really great experience with the owner or an employee the last time you were at your favourite store? Share that story. Those good stories are read by potential customers and can lead to more business.
- Shop online or by phone
Many retailers have online shops. Use this time to check out their online offerings. For those shops who don’t offer online options, many are happy to take an order over the phone. Plus, they could probably benefit from hearing a friendly, supportive voice!
