OPINION:
I’ve always had this thing about paying people I know and like to do stuff I would normally pay someone I don’t know to do.
Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity and the pleasure of working closely with quite a number of small business owners in Whanganui, assisting them in their endeavours to create thriving, sustainable businesses within our community.
The concept of “buy local” is one I really do support and get behind. It represents the essence of community spirit where local people work together to support one another, both as consumers and as service providers. By choosing to use local businesses, we are not only helping them maintain their livelihoods but also contributing to the overall health and vibrancy of our local economy.
Now don’t get me wrong; I am certainly not advocating for everyone asking for discounted “cuzzy” rates … no, no, no. Nor am I encouraging you to ask for free services from friends or acquaintances. Heck no. I believe in providing genuine support by paying fair market value for the work performed. Also, I am not referring to unscrupulous tradespeople who may charge exorbitant fees for sub-par work. Let me quickly explain what I mean by “exorbitant”. What I’m getting at are rates that significantly exceed market value, even when taking into account the increased costs of transportation, shipping and materials that many businesses are facing today.