Discover five key lessons from Surrey’s holiday campaign on shopping local, boosting community, economy, and unforgettable connections.
What Surrey’s Holiday Season Taught Us About Shopping Local
As the festive lights dim and we head into a new year, there’s one clear takeaway from this holiday season in Surrey: supporting local businesses is about so much more than shopping. Over the past eight weeks, our Shop Local campaign, in partnership with Invest Surrey, has revealed lessons that go far beyond gift-giving.
Lesson 1: Strengthening Community Starts Here
Choosing to shop local is choosing to strengthen your neighbourhood. Local businesses aren’t just stores they’re the backbone of Surrey. They sponsor youth sports, fund school events, and give generously to local charities. They provide jobs for young people and serve as friendly, familiar faces that make Surrey feel like home. Every purchase you make helps keep this network alive and thriving.
Lesson 2: Boosting the Local Economy
When you spend locally, money stays in Surrey. Independent businesses recirculate up to 4.6 times more revenue than large chains and keep up to 63% of that money in the province, compared to just 14% with multinationals. They generate more jobs, support local suppliers, and donate significantly more to local charities. Shopping locally doesn’t just benefit businesses it benefits every resident.
Lesson 3: Discover Unique Gifts
Local shops offer something you just can’t get online or at big-box stores: originality. From handmade crafts to one-of-a-kind products, local retailers provide expert guidance and personal touches that make your gifts truly special. Shopping locally ensures that your presents stand out and carry the charm of Surrey’s vibrant community.
Lesson 4: Share Experiences, Not Just Gifts
The holidays are also about time spent together. Surrey is filled with events, entertainment, and dining options that allow you to create memories while supporting your community. From festive gatherings to local performances, spending your time locally strengthens connections, helps local businesses thrive, and keeps our neighborhoods lively and welcoming.
Lesson 5: Building Lasting Relationships
Relationships are the essence of life and the holidays highlight that beautifully. Shopping local fosters connections with shop owners, neighbors, and fellow residents. Engaging with your community builds a support system that lasts all year. The best part? These relationships don’t fade after the holidays they continue to grow as you return to the same local stores for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or just everyday needs.
Take These Lessons Into 2026
Joslyn Young, CEO of the Surrey and White Rock Board of Trade, reminds us that exploring local businesses during the holidays makes it easier to integrate them into our year-round routines. Elizabeth Model, CEO of the Downtown Surrey Business Improvement Association, emphasizes that supporting local is not just a festive trend it’s an economic necessity, especially in challenging times.
When you shop local, you’re not just buying products you’re investing in Surrey’s community, economy, and future. Let’s carry these lessons forward into 2026, ensuring Surrey remains vibrant, welcoming, and thriving for everyone.
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