Shop Local
We firmly believe in the “shop small” or “shop local” movement. It’s part of who we are. We were raised to support the people around us and the businesses that supply us with our goods and services in the community. When we support local businesses, it strengthens the community. It also goes hand-in-hand with our giving back mentality.
Food that is grown closer to home is fresher, has lesser transportation emissions associated with it and supports local farmers. As the distance food travels decreases, so does the need for processing and refrigeration to reduce spoilage.
Where we shop, eat and have fun, all contributes to making our communities distinct. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an important part of the unique character of our towns which also benefits our tourism businesses.
Studies have shown when you buy from a locally owned business, more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers and farms. That continues to strengthen the economic base of the community.
A growing body of economic research shows in an increasingly generic world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest (and settle into) communities that preserve their distinctive character and one-of-a-kind businesses.
Small business owners are a passionate bunch. They love what they do and are so happy to share that passion with others. It also means they are bringing their A-game to get you the best products and services.
We’re proud members of the Smiths Falls Chamber of Commerce.
March 30/16 Update: We’re happy to bring Mrs. McGarrigle’s Mustards from Merrickville (ON) and Blitzen Estate Maple Syrup from Jasper (ON) into the regional products we love and support. So on top of the J. Quattrocchi, The Garden Market for much of our fresh produce and the Mild Italian sausage, we have Betty bread products in Alexandria (ON), Ice River Green water in Grafton (ON) and Lesters out of Laval (QC).
As a side note, in the deconstruction of the site from what everyone knew (that meant getting rid of the old awning, decks front & back) and a lot of other stuff that accumulated over 30+ years, we needed some help getting rid of all of it. We checked out a few businesses (local to Brockville & Ottawa too) and wound up choosing Junk Taxi out of Brockville. We had the best response time, pricing, delivery of the bin, payment processing and so on from Tom (the owner/operator).
There was part of the old awning he wanted for his own project so he ran down to Home Hardware to get tie-down straps needed to secure it to his truck for transport. By the time he got back to load it, and because we had so little left to load into the bin, he helped finish loading the bin, put the awning on top of the bin, secure it and we were all done. Half hour or so and polite, professional, on time and beyond helpful. But no, we didn’t receive a discount. He will however, bring his family up when we’re up and running. Thank you again Tom.