insideKENT Magazine Issue 151 - November 2024 | Page 212

BUSINESS

SHOP LOCAL , BUY LOCAL

FROM SUPPORTING OUR COUNTY ’ S OUTSTANDING CREATORS TO TAKING A POSITIVE LEAP TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY , OPTING TO SHOP KENTISH THROUGHOUT THE FESTIVE SEASON AND BEYOND IS MORE IMPORTANT AND ENJOYABLE THAN EVER . BY MIA CHAPMAN
As the joys of the festive gifting season come into full swing and we look back upon a whirlwind few years , it ’ s evident that world events have seen our high streets dig deep against the most detrimental of challenges . From the somewhat ever-present cost of living crisis and rise of online convenience to the greater need for the protection of our planet and a whole host of global effectors , it is clear that the ebb and flow of time has offered up perhaps a more hard-hitting realisation that we need to show some much-deserved love and appreciation to the wonderful independent shops lining our historic high streets . Flying the flag for all things community , considered shopping and one-of-a-kind offerings , our county ’ s growing small business scene also boasts some pretty impressive benefits for us to reap , too .
Perhaps most importantly , choosing to shop closer to home is imperative when it comes to boosting our local economy . When purchasing goods from local independents , you can relax in the knowledge that you are recycling money back into your community and aiding in the support and creation of employment across the county . Not to mention ensuring those vibrant high streets continue to thrive and burst with pride , life and community spirit . Just as much as a necessity with our collaborative focuses going towards making more eco-friendly choices , purchasing small is often praised for its reduction in the long-distance transportation of goods and therefore greatly improves our collective carbon footprint . With many Kentish entrepreneurs also pioneering environmentally-conscious packaging and practices , we can shop soundly , knowing that our steps towards sustainability are taken care of in more ways than one .
While keeping it Kentish is highlighted by its statistical and economical advantages , it ’ s not lost on us that our glorious Garden of England knows a thing or two about cut-above-the-rest offerings . As local businesses strive ahead with their innovative creations and arguably more thoughtful productions , continuing to hold the value of every customer as a top priority , you can expect only the highest-quality goods and bespoke services - very much worthy of adoration .
Luckily for us , giving the gift of Kent has never been easier . With a plethora of the most spectacular offerings , from glistening artworks and striking homewares to meaningful toys and thoughtfully-crafted treats , Kent is fully stocked with an abundance of gifts for all ages and interests , so we can tick off those shopping lists - not only with some seriously stylish presents , but with a heartwarming promise that we are also making a difference .
Here are just a few of insideKENT ’ s top shopping havens for the best indie presents , so you can shop local and buy local with the utmost ease and enjoyment .
MOO LIKE A MONKEY
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