Shop Local, Think Local

Our community is pretty fantastic and that includes our retailers - we think one of the most important things you can do is shop and support local business!

Shopping locally offers a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond mere transactions. The impact on the community's economy is substantial; when money circulates within local businesses, it supports not only business owners but also their employees and the broader community.

This economic support creates a ripple effect that boosts prosperity and quality of life for everyone involved. Of every dollar spent locally, about 70% stays local!

Our local businesses contribute to the cultural fabric of our communities. They often showcase products that reflect local creativity, history, and traditions, offering consumers the opportunity to connect with their community's unique identity. By supporting these businesses, shoppers not only acquire goods but also help preserve and promote the local culture and heritage.

One of the amazing things we’ve seen in the Wellington North community is our retailers working together and supporting each other to create an environment of mutual success, both at local events and on social media. Sterre Cafe & Gifts and Arthur Greenhouse recently hosted Business After 5 networking events that brought local business owners together to share challenges and ideas. The owners of Silver Fox Distillery have helped to raise thousands of dollars for children's hospitals. Copernicus Educational Products and Walker Industries encourage and support staff who volunteer at town events, town gardens, and the food bank.

International corporations that have found a home in Wellington North, such as Musashi Auto Parts, have donated to our local food banks and opened community gardens. In Mount Forest we’ve seen the new Yellow Brick Guest House use and promote products from many local retailers such as Plumes Interiors, The Eco Den, Arthur Cash & Carry, Country Carpet & Furniture, Mount Forest Thrift Store, McDonalds Home Appliances and many more. Those retailers in turn have promoted the new guest house and were instrumental in making it a success. Events like the Mount Forest Fireworks Festival and the Canada Day market and celebrations in Arthur wouldn’t be possible without the support and generosity of our local businesses that are too numerous to mention. It really does take a village!

Shopping locally is not just about buying goods; it's about investing in the vitality of your community. It strengthens economic resilience, fosters meaningful connections, promotes sustainability, and celebrates local culture—all of which contribute to a more vibrant and cohesive community experience.

We know this is just a tiny snapshot of all the great things our local businesses are doing for the community and we are sure to have missed many amazing local business stories.

We would love to hear from you and share your local business story on the online guide by emailing us at info@wncg.ca!