Supporting a local, independent business is beneficial for so many reasons. But of course, we’re going to say that! However, it’s not just about us gaining more custom (although that would be lovely, thank you!); it’s also about looking at the wider picture and the benefits it has for the community, the economy and the environment. Of course, we are great champions of local brands. Here are five reasons why it’s important to support local independent businesses:

1. Economic impact

Local businesses keep more money in the community. For every pound spent within an independent business, a significant portion of that remains within the local economy, boosting economic health.

2. Job creation

Small businesses are major employers and often provide jobs to local residents, reducing unemployment and fostering community stability. What’s more, we’d like to think that we’re good employers, offering flexibility, decent renumeration and other perks. After all, we have often worked for the big brands and want to make a change. We know what it’s like to run a small business and juggle our outside lives, and therefore treat our staff in the way in which we’d like to be treated!

3. Unique products and services

Independent businesses offer unique products and personalised services than big brands. For example, we often stock other small brands ourselves, partly to support other independent businesses and partly because we want to differentiate ourselves from chain stores. This often therefore reflects the character and culture of the local community.  

4. Environmental benefits

Local businesses often have smaller carbon footprints than large corporations. This is because we usually source products locally, reducing transportation emissions. Alternatively, it may be that we’ve chosen to stock environmentally conscious brands ourselves, once again benefitting the environment.

5. Community investment

Local business owners are more likely to reinvest in their communities, supporting local charities, schools, and events. You’ll regularly find us getting stuck into community events or being ambassadors for our favourite local charities. Remember that aforementioned economic impact that we have as a small business? Well, often times the money retained is going into not just other local businesses, but good causes such as charities, schools and community events.

6. Increased customer service

Independent businesses tend to provide better customer service. That’s because it’s important to us that we do a good job and retain your custom. We want to give a more personal touch and strike up direct relationships with our customers. You’ll often find that you’ll step into Shenfield Wine Co. and we’ll know not only your name, but also what it is that you like to drink and be able to suggest something similar that you might like to try, too.

Experience the independent business experience for yourself at the Shenfield Wine Company!

If we’ve not already given you enough reasons to shop small and shop local, then pop in store today and experience the different shopping at an independent business can make. Here at Shenfield Wine Co, we try to embody all of the above points and reasons to shop with local independent businesses, and we hope that you’ll especially find that our customer service, wine knowledge and the Shenfield Wine Co. experience is second to none. But don’t just take our word for it: pop in store today to find out why it’s important to shop with local independent businesses!