Whether you are searching for that perfect gift, wanting to enhance your home, or indulging in a little something for yourself, chances are you can find what you need right here in Langley.
And next week, consumers are asked to do just that.
Nov. 30 to Dec. 6 is BC Buy Local Week, and with some 7,000 licensed businesses operating in the Township alone, most of which are small, local business, it will be easy — and rewarding — for residents to support their local stores and services.
“There is so much available right here in our community,” said Val Gafka, the Township of Langley’s senior manager of corporate administration.
“The Township is full of unique, successful businesses that offer exceptional products and services and we really encourage people get out and explore, to discover what can be found in their own backyard during BC Buy Local Week.”
BC Buy Local was started by a Lower Mainland business owner as a grassroots initiative in 2008.
The following year, the not-for-profit organization LOCO BC was formed to highlight locally owned, made, and grown products and to enhance the local economy by advocating local purchasing.
Now, several municipalities, including the Township of Langley, participate in the annual BC Buy Local Week to showcase how local businesses keep communities and their economies strong.
“The goal of BC Buy Local is to illuminate the local market, making BC-based businesses, products, and foods more visible to consumers,” said Gafka.
“There is a lot to be gained by shopping locally. Local businesses create good jobs, contribute to our tax base, support local charities, and put the dollars they make back into our community by using the services and products of other local companies.
“There is a positive ripple effect that greatly contributes to our municipality’s healthy economic climate.”
For every $100 spent at a local business, $46 is recirculated back into the local economy, Gafka added.
“And from an environmental standpoint, shopping locally reduces the need to transport people and goods, which reduces our carbon footprint,” she said.
“As well, there is a sense of pride that comes from knowing what you are serving your guests or using in your home was grown or made in your own hometown.”
Residents can support the BC Buy Local movement by simply choosing to spend their money within the community during the week. And with Christmas on the horizon, now is a great time to see what’s in store, Gafka said.
Consumers will be able to recognize businesses participating in this year’s BC Buy Local Week through pink campaign buttons that will be worn by local business owners and their employees.
For more information, visit www.locobc.com.