Copyright langleyadvancetimes
(Advertising feature) Live Here, Shop Here is a Langley Advance Times campaign that spans the holiday season to spotlight the value of shopping local during a time of great turmoil in the world. “As this year’s holiday season approaches, let’s choose to spend our money with local businesses, helping to build a stronger, more resilient Langley. “In BC, nearly 98 per cent of all businesses are small businesses, many employing fewer than 50 people. These businesses employ over 1.1 million British Columbians, accounting for about 54 per cent of private-sector jobs in the province. Small businesses also generate roughly 34 per cent of B.C.’s GDP. “These aren’t just businesses, they are the backbone of our economy, and now, more than ever, we need to be supporting our local business owners. “When we support local businesses, they reinvest their profits here, contribute to our tax base and offer personal, face-to-face service that online websites simply can’t match. This holiday season, where we can, together let’s choose to support Langley over convenience.” – Langley Township Mayor Eric Woodward There’s no arguing that buying local supports job creation by supporting small business owners, entrepreneurs, and workers in the area. But it also makes communities more resilient to economic forces often beyond the control of the consumer, business owner, and municipality, while helping people live a greener life by choosing to patronize small businesses that source from local suppliers. Shopping local and exploring what is available within the Langleys allows the public to find the not only all their basic needs when it comes to groceries, housewares, clothing, and more but also those hidden gems and businesses that provide that perfect gift for a loved one, hard to find ingredient, or specialty sports gear. Small- and medium-sized businesses are often more involved in their neighbourhoods and communities, supporting local charities, youth groups, seniors organizations, arts groups, and more. “Local businesses are the lifeblood of any community; it is what bring vibrancy to our neighbourhoods, main streets, and downtowns. “Langley City has many local businesses throughout our community, and there is a good chance that everything you need could be found from a local merchant. “When you support a local business, you are not only supporting the local economy but you are also supporting your community as a whole. Local business owners care deeply about the communities they serve, and many of them even reside in the same community. “In Langley City, many owners participate in civic life, including membership in the Downtown Langley Business Association, the Greater Langley Chambers of Commerce, and serving on Langley City committees. “They invest their time and money back into Langley City. “So, next time you are looking to purchase something or use a service, please consider getting it locally.” – Langley City Mayor Nathan Pachal • Check out upcoming Langley Advance Times editions for more stories in our Live Here, Shop Here series.
