I try to buy local if I can, but like you say, it’s not always possible, and often comes with an attractive price tag.

The things that I feel matter are supporting local farms and food markets, as well as local businesses. I’d rather support my local dentist than a national chain. I’d rather buy my veg from the Saturday farmers market than from the grocery store, when able. Keeping the money local does play a part in maintaining the local economy. Most of our purchases wind up shipping money out of our community, so I try where I can to plug the leak.

I’m also a small business, so it’s important to show my support for others.