Survey studies ‘shop local’ initiative
A survey conducted by OurOkanagan.ca is providing insight to consumer and business attitudes towards shopping locally.
Through an online survey, 579 respondents offered their opinions, including what prevents them from buying local.
“The positive economic impact of shopping locally is well documented and is an important driver of a region’s economy, so we wanted to find out about the local buying habits here in the valley,” said Brad Clements, a project member. “This information can provide insight into how businesses can better connect with the local market.”
Results of the survey show residents in the Okanagan Valley wish to shop locally, with 98 per cent of respondents indicating that buying local was important to them. However, the results also suggested consumers have some challenges when shopping local.
First, many of the respondents indicated there isn’t an easy way to find what is available locally. They rely mostly on word of mouth, local advertising or general Internet searches.
Second, when asked why consumers do not buy locally, many cited price and lack of selection as they key reasons. Quality of local products and services was not a strong reason in preventing purchases.
“These results suggest that businesses need to examine how they get their message out, and be very specific what information is included. Consumers need to get the message that the products and services are available and the value they receive is worth the price they are paying,” said Clements.
With Google being, by far, the most common search engine used by consumers, Clements said local businesses need to advertise in local media that reach their target market and ensure they have a strong web presence if they wish to be picked up in the search process.
A full summary of the survey results can be found at www.ourokanagan.ca.
Sun-Rype sets Guinness record
Sun-Rype Products set a Guinness world record for the longest fruit snack during a charity event in Kelowna.
With the help of the community and KidSport Kelowna, the 300-foot, fully edible fruit snack was unrolled across the length of a football field. In addition to setting the record, Sun-Rype helped raise more than $4,000 for KidSport Canada.
“KidSport Kelowna is extremely grateful to Sun-Rype for their efforts to raise both awareness and much-needed funds for our organization,” said Laura Wickware from KidSport Kelowna.
More than 500 people attended the event. The record will be featured in the Guinness World Records 2013 book, which will be released next fall.
