Thinking local is the future for Victoria, said mayor-elect Lisa Helps at the launch of Think Local Week.

Think Local Week kicked off on Monday, Dec. 1 and runs through to Dec. 7.

B次元官网网址淥nce upon a time, this city was all local businesses; and going forward, we're seeing a return to local,B次元官网网址� said Helps.

Think Local Week is hosted by Think Local First Victoria, an initiative consisting of Greater Victoria business owners that encourages residents to shop at local businesses.

B次元官网网址淲hat's really thrilling about the Think Local movement is that it's coming from the businesses themselves. And more than that, it's coming from their customers,B次元官网网址� said Helps. B次元官网网址淚 don't think people in Victoria should care, I think people in Victoria do care; and that's why we see the emergence of the Think Local First movement.B次元官网网址�

Think Local Week is a chance to recognize local businesses and the role they play, said Gayle Robinson, president of Think Local First Victoria and owner of Robinson's Outdoor Store.

B次元官网网址淚t is a celebration of independent businesses in Victoria, and the difference they make to our community.B次元官网网址�

Robinson said Think Local Week also aims to educate the public on the benefits of shopping local.

B次元官网网址淚f you can spend 10 per cent of your money locally when it makes sense for you, you make a huge difference to Victoria,B次元官网网址� said Robinson. B次元官网网址淲hen you spend 10 per cent of your money locally, 25 per cent more stays in Victoria.B次元官网网址�

JC Scott, owner of JC Scott Eco Design Associates, said he thinks local by buying materials for his projects from local businesses.

B次元官网网址淲hen we support a local business, we support our local economy.B次元官网网址�

Throughout this week, Think Local First will be giving away $1,000 worth of gift cards via social media.

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