Shopping local doesn't cost as much as you think in Hammersmith & Fulham.
If, for example, you're looking for fresh fruit and veg, North End Road's market is actually the cheapest place to shop in west London.
For every £1 spent at a small or medium sized business, £0.63 stays invested in the local economy, far more than the £0.40 when you shop at a larger company.
If every adult in Hammersmith & Fulham spent £5 a week at a local independent business, £33.5m would be invested into our local economy.
Every penny spent locally supports jobs and services, benefiting your community.
8 reasons why you should shop local
1. Invest in your high street
By spending money in your local shop, restaurant, café or pub, you invest money directly back into H&F's local economy.
Whether at a market stall, store or even online, shopping locally provides a greater boost to your community.
2. Support local jobs in your area
Supporting your high streets creates local jobs that directly benefit your neighbours and helps develop a healthy economy for your local area – making H&F a better place to live, work and socialise.
3. Find great deals on your doorstep
Keep your eyes peeled for competitive prices in your local shops. Independent retailers often reward regular customers, while others provide great deals that can't be found in major outlets – helping you save money as you spend.
4. Preserve the heart of the community
High streets are places where residents can come together not only to shop, but also to socialise, learn new skills and discover arts and culture.
By supporting local business you keep these vibrant areas alive and help to generate revenue that boost council services such as libraries and parks across H&F.
5. Finding something unique
Small and local businesses often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere. This gives you a great range of choice and unique products to browse – including original finds that aren't mass produced.
6. Improve your shopping experience
Small businesses are often run by people who live nearby, understand their customers and local community, and therefore provide a more personalised experience.
7. Protect the environment and reduce your carbon footprint
Independent shops regularly source their goods locally, helping to reduce their carbon footprint. By shopping local, you can support this green movement, and even add to it by walking or cycling to your high street.
8. How shopping local makes a difference
Small businesses have faced a tough few years with the uncertainty and impact of the Covid-19 lockdowns, and are now facing further strain with the cost-of-living crisis and rising prices.
Small and medium businesses account for 96 per cent of all businesses in the UK. Supporting them supports the backbone of our economy, driving growth, employment opportunities and opening new markets, directly benefitting your local economy.
