From its origins as a sleepy little port to the popular tourism spot it is now, one thing has always remained central to the heart of Esperance: locals supporting local business.
Shopping locally in regional communities is important for a number of reasons. One of the main benefits to shopping local is keeping they money you spend within the community, rather than sending it out to larger, metropolitan hubs. Supporting local businesses helps our community to thrive by creating jobs and stimulating growth in the local economy.
Another reason why it’s important to shop local is that it helps to build a sense of community. Small businesses are often owner-operator run, and quickly build relationships with customers and suppliers. The personal touch provided by small business owners helps to create a sense of belonging. Small business owners also often have a greater understanding of the needs of the community and can tailor their products and services to meet those needs.
As an isolated, regional town, we have a lot of character and a strong identity. Shopping local helps Esperance to retain its character, with locally-owned businesses often being able to stock handmade and artisan products made with love and care by locals in the community.
Shopping local also can help to reduce the environmental impact. Small business are more likely to source their goods locally, reducing transportation footprint of goods, and also they are more likely to prioritize environmental sustainability in their operations.
In addition, local businesses also tend to support other local initiatives and causes. They may sponsor local sports teams or donate to local charities and non-profits, which helps to strengthen the community even more.
In short, shopping local in regional communities is important because it helps to support the local economy, build a sense of community, preserve the unique character of a place, be more environmentally friendly and also supports other community initiatives. By choosing to shop at locally-owned businesses, you can help to ensure that your community continues to thrive.
How EOPP can help you shop local in Esperance
EOPP helps members to shop local via the EOPP card, enabling members to purchase from a number of retailers across town using the one account. EOPP also encourages local businesses to remain competitive with their prices, enabling members to shop local at a reasonable price. Finally, our suppliers offer a range of exclusive deals and discounts to EOPP members. Being an EOPP members is one of the best ways you can promote shopping local in the Esperance community.
Interested in becoming an EOPP member or supplier?
Contact Helen our Executive Officer at eo@eoppcooperativeltd.com or visit the membership page for more information.
