Shopping local and small - easy peasy

So of late you'll have probably heard lots about how spending money in your local community benefits more people, as small local businesses are then more likely to spend money with other local businesses, and it boosts your local economy, directly helps more folks etc...

It's not always an easy thing to do though, as the weekly shop is undeniably lazily simpler done in one shop. So here's a thought, you know your staples, and where you like to easily buy them from - so how about re-thinking your treats? It need not be more expensive, as even if the same money gets a smaller serving, you darn know it'll be a fresher, tastier, and more satisfying one.

A little change to your routine, here and there, and your sweet store cupboard naughties are from a local bakery (which are fresher and tastier than supermarket ones!) Your "we're having a lazy sunday" fry-up sausages are from a local butcher. If you keep your eyes and mind open, you'll find easy local small shopping opportunities as you pop out from work on your lunch-break, on the way back from the supermarket... You need not go far out of your way if you want to make one locally sourced, small business buy each week - just look for those chances and take them.

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Alternatively, a great idea is to find your local market, or farmers market if you're lucky enough to have one, and have a monthly potter around there and the local shops. Combine it with time to hook up with mates or family (elder relatives often love a market), takes the kids for a run around a park followed by buying and trying weird foods, or spend time by yourself, enjoying your own thing! Plan ahead for birthday gifts you want to look for and pick up the foodie treats to top up your regular shop (wouldn't some decent cheese be a good extra on those crumpets?)

If you don't know about local markets, you may be surprised what comes up if you check the local free paper rather than just recycling it, search online or contact your local council. Often they're held a little out of the way, but in places with extra bonuses such as lots of non-high street shops, a craft and arts fair, or in attractive locations ripe for taking a walk or grabbing lunch in a local pub.

From city suburb to country village, the chances to shop local and small are there, and are easy. All you need do is open your mind to finding those chances and add an enjoyable extra to your regular routine. 

If you're after a great small business shopping chance, November 8th sees Castle Donington hosting both an arts and craft fair, and the farmer's market, which when combined with the local shops and cafes, makes for a great few hours gentle exploration. Or make a day of it and enjoy crunching the leaves by the Trent on a local walk!

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