Keep it Local

I visited the 18th annual Manufactured Right Here exhibition this past weekend at the Remax Centre. It's always encouraging to see the growing list of products made here in our province. Ours is a place in the world where it can be difficult to get certain products (such as fresh produce as an example) due to transportation issues and other headaches. It was great to see the number of products and services coming from our own backyards.

I saw lots of locally-made items from clothing to windows; from cabinets to milk and other food items.

Here is an excerpt from an online address given by the Newfoundland and Labrador Vice-President of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters:
"Buying locally-made goods means investment in our economy, and it means employment for all regions of our province. Every $1 of manufacturing output in Newfoundland & Labrador it generates $2.54 in total economic activity – the largest economic multiplier of any sector! For every $110,000 worth of product made here, we directly create one full-time job, and another one and half spin-off jobs.

But there are many other good reasons to buy locally-made products, in addition to the social and economic benefit to the community. Many are food products – so they are fresher, more flavourful, and reflect local trends in tastes. Large products, like furniture and mattresses often have reduced transportation costs, because they are made here. If you need after sales support, training or service, being close counts. Many of our products are unique – you just won’t find them elsewhere."

Just found: a blog about local NL products!