Shop Local

I do not know why, but I am continually amazed by not only what you can find, but the quality of the service you get by shopping locally. You always hear of people saying the importance of shopping locally but lets look at a couple of things.

One thing you will always get is excellent Customer Service. Last Fall I was in Virginia and misplaced a pair of glasses. I called Nancy at Acton Optical from a Walgreens in Williamsburg to ask what kind of “cheaters” I should buy. In a matter of minutes she looked up my prescription and took the time to make sure I had found a pair I could use until I got back home. She offered to courier a pair to me if needed. All this while she had customers in the store to take care of.

Burt from Emerald Island is the same way. In the midst of a store being moved, a new one being built and moving inventory. He had an item I had purchased there 2 yrs ago, picked up, repaired and dropped back off at the house. All this while dealing with the chaos of relocating.

These are just 2 examples and we can all think of the times a local shop keeper or a staff member went out of their way to get us something we needed.

Every soccer, baseball, hockey team is usually sponsored by a local business. They give to support these groups as they know the importance that team can play in the development of children and to the active lifestyle for all of us. When ever a local community group needs a silent auction item they approach a restaurant or store for a donation.

A local car dealer will treat you better then an out of town one. I saw that first hand. Why? They know that you should return for service and they want you to tell the neighbours about the great customer service you got. All dealers pay the same price for the vehicle, all want to sell you not only the car, but service the hell out of you with the service and parts department. If you must shop, go out of town first and then stop by your local car dealership when you are ready to make a deal.

Both the Acton and Georgetown BIA work hard to attract you to the downtown cores of our fair town. They spend their own money on beautification whether it be flowers, benches or murals. They organise events like the farmers markets. Festivals and restaurant sampling. All done by dedicated volunteers.

If you want locally grown food there is a variety of produce, fruits and vegetables all at your doorstep. Try the steaks from Agram meats on Trafalgar Road, with Halton Hills raised beef, pork and chicken. Kabobs from Grill to go. A pie from Chudleighs. Made here and shipped all over the world!

All of the shop keepers in town will try and get you what you want. They do not have the big overhead of the city stores. They employ your friends, neighbours and your family. It is better for the environment and for you! Stop in and see and support them. They would love to see you!