Oct 16, 2012

10% Shift: Think Independently, Shop LocallyBy Jennifer CreightonSyracuse.com

Syracuse, NY – We all play an important role in creating the future of our community and sometimes it’s the little things that mean a lot. When it comes to supporting our local economy, a little change really does go a long way. The numbers prove it and we all can be a part of it.

At SyracuseFirst, we have developed a “10% Shift” campaign that asks businesses, government agencies and nonprofits to shift 10 percent or more of their annual budget from nonlocal businesses to locally owned and independent businesses. It’s something that’s not hard to accomplish: purchasing office supplies, accounting, advertising, janitorial services and more from local firms is an easy and cost-competitive choice for just about any company.

Collectively, we can have an even greater impact in our personal lives by doing the same thing — just a 10% Shift. It means occasionally buying that morning cup of coffee from a locally owned, independent shop instead of exclusively choosing a chain; stopping at a farmers market for your produce; purchasing a gift for a loved one from a local shop instead of a national retailer; or picking out a new outfit from a locally owned, independent boutique. Often the products and services at locally owned businesses are better than their national competitors.

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