6 reasons you should Shop Locally Owned Businesses

Shortly after launching our own business, we made a commitment to support local businesses as much as we could. The impact of this decision has been far greater than we expected — it’s transformed how we shop, who we meet, and how we feel as consumers. Here’s why we believe shopping local is one of the best decisions you can make.

1. Excellent Customer Service

Before our launch, I once politely complained to a large high street store after a delivery never arrived. The response? A polite brush-off and a disconnected line. I knew I’d never hear from them again.

Not so with small businesses! Independent owners are personally invested in what they do. They care deeply about their reputation and customers, often going above and beyond to provide a bespoke, flexible, and personal service. Small business owners have the agility to respond quickly, the passion to impress, and the heart to make you feel valued.

2. Supporting Your Local Economy

You may have seen the quote:

“When you buy from a small business, you’re not helping a CEO buy a third holiday home. You’re helping a little girl get dance lessons, a little boy his team jersey, and parents put food on the table.”

It’s true — spending locally helps sustain families, friends, and neighbours. Research shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business, 63p stays in the local economy, compared to just 40p when spent with a large company. That’s nearly a quarter more staying in your community — strengthening it with every purchase.

3. Building Communities

Many city centres look the same — identical high street stores and empty shop fronts. But vibrant, welcoming communities are built on independent businesses that bring personality and life to our streets.

Sadly, small retailers face rising rents and inflexible lease terms, making it hard to survive. Supporting them keeps our towns unique, lively, and full of character. Use them or lose them — your support helps ensure our high streets thrive again.

4. Great Choice and Expertise

Small businesses often offer unique, high-quality, and lovingly crafted products — the kind you won’t find in chain stores. These owners are experts in their craft, whether they’re butchers, bakers, bike sellers, or insurance brokers. They love what they do, and it shows in the care and quality of their work.

5. It’s Often More Ethical

Shopping local can also mean shopping more ethically and sustainably. Independent businesses are more likely to treat employees fairly and source responsibly. It can also reduce your carbon footprint, since products travel shorter distances and supply chains are smaller and more transparent.

6. It Feels Good!

This is something we didn’t expect — but shopping local simply feels wonderful. You get to know the people behind your purchases — the greengrocer who chats with the kids, the baker who slips in a free naan, the designer who creates something truly bespoke just for you.

There’s real joy in these connections. Each purchase supports someone’s passion and livelihood. It gives meaning to the things we buy — and strengthens the fabric of our community.

Supporting local and small businesses has genuinely enriched our lives. Check out a few of the many small businesses that have impressed us here, and next time you shop, consider how you might invest in your local community.
Get in touch if we could help you find the right business, not-for profit or professional insurance, or if you'd like recommendation for an excellent provider of another kind of service or product. Happy shopping!