Shopping Local in Challenging Times

During this time of uncertainty, most agree that the local economy will be weighed down by the impact of COVID-19.  The impacts on small businesses and independents can be particularly heavy as we practice necessary social distancing. Small businesses choose to invest in our community and our neighbourhoods with the hope that the community will give back to them with the same vigor. 

Supporting local businesses during this challenging time for Fairbank business is more than a “good idea” it is a necessity to help keep these small businesses flourishing to preserve jobs and your community.

Here are ways to support small businesses:

  1. Harness the power of social media.  Even though their doors may be closed, business owners are still hard at work, so please share about your favourite stores on social media and tag us #myfairbankvillage (Instagram), #fairbankbia (Facebook) and #FairbankVillage (Twitter).

  2. Take some time and submit a positive Google review for your favorite business … yes, the Google reviews you’ve been meaning to write ever since you had the best slice of pizza, the best manicure, the best bouquet of flowers, etc… let’s use this downtime to help boost the ratings of the businesses in your community!

  3. Order takeout or delivery from local restaurants.

  4. If you do need to get supplies, take precautions and shop local. Here’s a map of businesses that are open, which contains notes about who offers delivery or online services:  https://tinyurl.com/FairbankVillage. For many of these businesses you can also call to make arrangements. We’re trying to keep this list up-to-date weekly.

  5. Follow all Government recommended precautions and stay home if you feel sick or have been exposed to someone who is sick to help protect the hard-working employees making sure supplies are accessible.

Linked below are some helpful documents:

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OEDC) interim economic outlook: “Coronavirus: the world economy at risk”. 

Canadian Chamber of Commerce – Pandemic Preparedness for Business

Government of Canada – Risk-Informed Decision Making for Mass Gatherings During COVID- 19

City of Toronto: www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/

Government of Ontario: www.ontario.ca/coronavirus

Government of Canada: www.canada.ca/coronavirus

World Health Organization: www.who.int

Credit – Burlington Downtown Business Association

Fairbank Village BIA