Vocal for local has been making rounds since last year. People have started taking notice, tagging friends, and sharing info about local startups. But, are people actually buying local? Have they really started caring about local brands? Do they trust these brands? Or, are these brands satisfying the symbolic needs of the market?
The questions are many but the answer is; it’s all erratic till now and the game of “maybe” is still going on.
So, what's the need to buy local. Why do we need to either completely switch (which is not a feasible option for everyone) or at least start adding local brands to our wardrobe? Let me give you some reasons to buy local.
Helps local brands grow and expand
Yes, I am stating the obvious. With every single purchase, you not only boost the brand financially but also elates the entrepreneur's spirit to serve better. You must feel pride in purchasing locally as you are helping a citizen of your country grow and in turn generate more employment.
Decrease carbon footprint
When you buy an international product, then you become a part of a complex supply chain. This complex supply chain increases the greenhouse gas emission with each step increasing your carbon footprint. But when you buy local, the product is manufactured locally and gets delivered to you. This reduces the footprint tremendously and helps you become part of an ecofriendly trail. It also moves you closer to attaining a sustainable fashion wardrobe
Generate work for local artisans and weavers
Some startups are taking it a step further and working on a grassroot level with local artisans and weavers to promote their age-old craft. This makes the brands even more special. When you buy from these brands you add an authentic and unique art piece to your wardrobe and generate livelihood for the weavers and artisans at the same time.
Strong sense of community
In the age where people are stuck to their screen most of the time, the same people thrive for a connection and build a sense of community and belongingness. And when you start purchasing from local brands which share the same interest as you then you start feeling the connection. This slowly helps in building a community with shared interests and things to discuss. Buying local will bring you one step closer to the roots.
Support and promote sustainable fashion
Buying from a local brand decreases carbon footprint, builds a green wardrobe, and supports sustainability. You can extend support to a sustainable fashion and lifestyle by sharing your purchase within your social circle. When you endorse local brands, it helps them in building trust and getting more sales. I might sound supremely optimistic here but, your one post has the power to influence someone to adapt the sustainable way of fashion and lifestyle. With this can become a mindful shopper and help us move toward green fashion.
I am not saying don’t buy your favorite pair of levies denim or the H&M blazer you have your eyes on since the launch. What I am saying to make an attempt to build a wardrobe that homes indigenous brands as well. It's gonna boost sales, generate employment, and help the economy grow along with decreasing the overall carbon footprint that is generated by the fast fashion industry. Let us try and make an effort to grow together.
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