The Fernie Chamber of Commerce hosted a Small Business Week luncheon October 17 and gave business owners an introduction to a movement working to sustain local economies and build stronger communities.
The Ten Percent Shift is sponsored by CUPE BC, the union that represents more than 85,000 workers in B.C. The shift is focused on getting people to make a conscious decision to shift ten percent of their household spending to local goods and services. Making the effort to support locally owned and run businesses is the first step to bringing back vibrant and sustainable local economies.
Barry O-Neil, author of the Ten Percent Shift initiative, spoke to those in attendance about the importance of shopping at home. He outlined a few of the benefits, including supporting community groups, better service and selection, and the creation of more jobs.
Further information on the campaign can be found at www.tenpercentshift.ca.