Buying local. Why is it so important?

Supporting the local economy

It’s a well-known fact that a local purchase stimulates the local economy, but how does it work exactly? When a consumer purchases a local product, they help to create jobs relating to the production, distribution and marketing of said product, thus directly reinserting the money spent into our economy. To give you some idea of the potential scope of local purchasing, according to the Quebec Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ), if each consumer bought just $30 more a year of Quebec products, it would generate an additional $1 billion in sales over 5 years for the local economy.

Buying local also means making a fair and equitable choice, as la Commission des normes du travail (Labour Standards Commission) assures us that the workers are well-treated in their workplace, throughout the circuit. Basically, every time we decide to buy local, we’re making a mindful and responsible purchase. Not bad, right?

Reducing our environmental footprint

The environment currently represents a major issue in our society and we are witnessing a trend towards environmentally-friendly products. Naturally, when we buy local, we reduce our environmental footprint and the main reason is quite simple: the length of the distribution circuit. Fruits and vegetables travel 3,000 to 5,000 kilometres to get to our tables. According to the MAPAQ, purchasing locally-grown produce can reduce that distance by five to ten times.

The distribution circuit of a local product from the producer to your plate is much shorter than that of a product from abroad, which helps to reduce the negative impacts of transport, such as greenhouse gas emissions. The shorter the circuit, the better!

Unequalled freshness

Seasonally available foods are remarkable for their taste and freshness. The shorter distance travelled by the products after harvest ensures utmost freshness so you can enjoy savoury local flavours. In fact, that’s what you’ll find in all Locaal meals crafted by our chef, which always showcase our local producers and their products.

Buying local is a simple and environmentally-friendly choice; it’s a win-win for everyone!