Throughout the pandemic, the government urged consumers to shop local and by and large, we did. They were giving support through staycations or supporting hotel restaurants that were doing pick up. Those dark days of 2020 showed how Kiwis are great at stepping up and being there when it counts.
Now it's the accommodation industry's turn to step up and support local. By supporting local businesses, operators are in no small way paying it back.
For those transitioning from MIQ or reopening mothballed rooms, COVID-19 has changed the business model for the accommodation sector.
So, how can you support local, and why should you?
Firstly, you will be dealing with locals; you'll know where they are located, and they will be easily contactable if there are any problems. Good local businesses maintain their reputations by treading their community with care and professionalism.
Then there's the money. Let's talk about the money. An essential factor for the recovery process is getting local businesses and service providers back up and operating, generating cash flow through the local economy. The most significant advantage of buying local is that the money will stay within your community, especially after life-changing events such as the COVID-19 pandemic or weather bombs.
Small local businesses drive the local economy. Local suppliers work in their communities (or near) and are genuinely interested in the community's financial and economic wellness – just as much as you are. Have peace of mind in hiring a local business, and know that your money is going back into your community.
The other important factor is that when using a local business, it is easy to check references and get a feel for the supplier's reputation. They are also on hand to answer questions or concerns after the product or service is delivered.
You often get bombarded with salespeople who do not work directly for the company they represent. Sometimes, they will sell a product or service at a premium price but not offer a premium service.
A local supplier is also familiar with the benefits and supply chain limitations of what is available in your area. Not only are they available at the end of the phone or in person, but your local supplier will also know of any hurdles to completing or delivering your job on time and within your budget. A final point to consider is that local business operators will be far more concerned about reputation than international suppliers. Local firms want to maintain a positive image, so clients keep returning, leading to higher quality products and better service.
Doing business locally, it's the smart choice. New Zealand needs local businesses to support local businesses, to keep the economy moving and the money circulating within your community.
