Support the Local
I just received an e-mail about the 3/50 project created to promote independent businesses like Plenty.
Markets remain at the heart of many great cities and towns, as places for the exchange of goods, as well as, social spaces in which to meet and share experiences and culture. Traditionally merchants were part of this social space and vitally connected to community and place. Today many retailers (and restauranteurs) still help to define cities by expressing the unique cultures in them. However, at some point retail separated from place, from community, and rather than reflecting a culture of place it began to project a culture of it’s own – a mass placeless consumer culture that is now, finally, coming into question. It’s time to come back to cultures of place, to supporting local markets and merchants.
I remember some unique stores in Victoria, particularly ones that used to exist along Government Street and in and around Market Square. We’ve had some wonderfully quirky businesses here, many that have helped to inspire Plenty. Of course owners retire and move to other things but for awhile those unique businesses, that help to make Victoria the special place that it is, were being replaced by chain stores that belong not to Victoria but to the malls of anywhere (but nowhere in particular). I think that’s turning around now and I hope that we can be considered a part of that – of the act of place making, of helping to create a unique and interesting experience in Victoria. I’ve also discovered that its not easy – we really do need your support and so do small merchants like us. I want to live in a city that is vibrant – and unique – that has something special to offer to those that live in it and to those that visit. That can only happen if we as consumers choose to support one another in the communities in which we live.
Here are a few other links about “Supporting the Local”:
Victoria’s Grapevine: When we opened Plenty we were very fortunate to be ‘Graped’ by a wonderful group of people who descended upon the store en-mass one quiet rainy day. It was a wonderful boost to receive during our first year. These wise people know the value of local businesses and they know when new business people need support the most – on those inevitable quiet days in the early months of a venture.
The Green Collective: Plenty is a proud member of The Green Collective, a group of local businesses, that work together utilizing the philosophy of “co-opetition”. This means that we choose to co-operate on marketing initiatives with merchants who we may be in direct competition with but who share a common vision of social, environmental, and community responsibility.
Modern Urban Guides: Dean & Daniela started in Vancouver creating great guides showcasing local businesses. I’ve discovered some great neighbourhoods and shops because of them. They have now expanded to other cities. We are happy to be part of the Victoria guide.
Spend Locally: Ariane found Plenty and profiled us on her Spend Locally website. She is also based in Vancouver and has profiled some wonderful BC businesses like the Silent Gardener who she is featuring at the moment.
I just recently came across the Project for Public Spaces and look forward to learning more about their work promoting ‘place making’.