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Unless you've been sick and stuck on a diet of microwave dinners and over-processed mass-manufactured foods, you will know that there is a big movement back towards locally grown produce. The benefit of supporting local growers is immense, and puts the economic power back in the community's hands. Eating is an essential (and delicious!) part of life, and as long as there are people on earth, there will be people buying food. We have no choice - we have to eat. But we do have a choice about what we are going to eat and where we will buy it.
Most big brand name food companies are money-driven in their production. More chemicals and preservatives are making it onto our food and slowly causing detrimental effects on our health. By choosing food from local food and wine retailers, you can support more local producers and growers if the shops have a fresh food section.
Another great thing about supporting your local food and wine retailers is that over time you will get to know the people who work at these stores. Building relationships with the people in your area strengthens the sense of community, and it's always good to have a network of friends and acquaintances to keep the spirit up.
By shopping local, apart from becoming a "regular" at your neighborhood shops, you will also save on gasoline and time. If you are lucky enough to live within walking distance from a food and wine store, you can walk to your store or ride your bicycle there and get some exercise while you're at it. By getting into this habit, you can also ensure that you always have fresh produce in your home, as you'll prefer to carry small amounts of food at a time. Buy less but more frequently.
Many food and wine retailers have point card systems. Every time you shop, you swipe your card and you will receive a certain amount of points depending on the amount that you spend. These points accumulate and you can then use it as cash. Some stores send you a cash-back voucher after a month or a certain term, whereas other shops allow you to redeem your points after you saved up a certain amount. This gives you even more reason to buy your food and wine at the same store.
When you often shop from the same store, you get to know the patterns of the shop as well. You will know what time they open in the mornings and until what time you can buy food there at night. Buying from your local food and wine retailers brings convenience into your life!
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