We just got an email over at buylocalreno@gmail.com from a customer who wanted to share his experience buying local.... Read on, and please take a minute to let us know the next time a local business makes a little bit of a difference in your life!
Here is the message-
I needed to pick up some ink cartridges for my home printer today. I had heard about a place called Rapid Refill down on Longley and Virginia. I called at 5:50 to ask how late they were open and Terry told me that he would stick around until I got there. Arrived right around 6 and told them the model of my printer and they grabbed my two cartridges, the total was just under $35, and I was off in about 3 minutes total.
As I was leaving it seemed to me that the price was pretty cheap. On the drive home I pass by an Office Depot so I decided to stop and see what they charged for the ink. The assistant manager asked if I needed help and I told him I needed some ink for my printer and gave him the model number. He proceeded to pick up package after package to figure out which ones I needed. About 5 minutes into it he had grabbed the correct ones- they were $80!!! No thanks!!
I can't believe how much cheaper, easier and more satisfying it was to do business with the local guys! Keep spreading the word!!!
This kind of thing really gets us going!! Please share your thoughts and comments with us- it only takes a second and we will put them to good use helping the local businesses that we support!
You can find Rapid Refill on the web at http://www.rapidrefill.com/ and the locally owned store right here.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Spreading the love for locals
Buylocalreno.com is here to help you spread the word about your local business events. Whether it's a sale, a party, grand opening or group gathering, let us know and we will help you spread the word!
Plenty of ways to contact us-
buylocalreno@gmail.com
@buylocalreno on twitter
Write a note on our facebook fan page
or leave a comment right here on the blog and we will post it up!
If you use twitter- check out the badge to the left to add our twibbon to your avatar and help spread the word!!!
Plenty of ways to contact us-
buylocalreno@gmail.com
@buylocalreno on twitter
Write a note on our facebook fan page
or leave a comment right here on the blog and we will post it up!
If you use twitter- check out the badge to the left to add our twibbon to your avatar and help spread the word!!!
Friday, July 17, 2009
September Event
So here is the thought-
A one day expo open to all locally owned businesses. Each business will have the opportunity to market their business however they like (as long as it is tasteful!) at the event. News of the event will be marketed via radio, TV, flyers, e-mail and social media outlets.
What's in it for the business?
A chance to expose the business to 2000 plus people that are motivated to support locals. Support and guidance on marketing at the event from professionals.
What's in it for buylocalreno.com?
A chance to show that a group of passionate entrepreneurs, however small, can shake things up and give the big boys a run for their money. The satisfaction of showing everyone that with nothing more than a little help from our friends, we can prosper.
What does it cost to get involved?
Nothing at all! At least not money, only time. You commit to the event with your time and effort in spreading the word, setting up and tearing down at the location. That's all.
So that's the idea, now for the execution-
We need your support to put this together, starting with the discussion here and on our facebook page. Securing a location, for free, will be much easier if we can approach with a list of dedicated supporters.
Once a location and date are set, a core group of organizers will be called for and then the ball is rolling.
So please share your thoughts- positive, negative, whatever they may be. And if you own a local business or know someone who does, post up and tell us who your are and how you plan to make this a success!
A one day expo open to all locally owned businesses. Each business will have the opportunity to market their business however they like (as long as it is tasteful!) at the event. News of the event will be marketed via radio, TV, flyers, e-mail and social media outlets.
What's in it for the business?
A chance to expose the business to 2000 plus people that are motivated to support locals. Support and guidance on marketing at the event from professionals.
What's in it for buylocalreno.com?
A chance to show that a group of passionate entrepreneurs, however small, can shake things up and give the big boys a run for their money. The satisfaction of showing everyone that with nothing more than a little help from our friends, we can prosper.
What does it cost to get involved?
Nothing at all! At least not money, only time. You commit to the event with your time and effort in spreading the word, setting up and tearing down at the location. That's all.
So that's the idea, now for the execution-
We need your support to put this together, starting with the discussion here and on our facebook page. Securing a location, for free, will be much easier if we can approach with a list of dedicated supporters.
Once a location and date are set, a core group of organizers will be called for and then the ball is rolling.
So please share your thoughts- positive, negative, whatever they may be. And if you own a local business or know someone who does, post up and tell us who your are and how you plan to make this a success!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Getting noticed by the big boys
Hello friends and neighbors!! Notice the new logo up above??? It was created as part of the package to get our new site up and running by EFG. Check it out on the home page of the site and let me know your thoughts.....
Just wanted to point out a few cool things in the Buy Local world as of late.
First of all, Self Employed Magazine has interviewed us to be part of an article coming this fall about how a buy local campaign can positively affect small businesses. I love that we have national attention before the site is even finished!!!
Although we weren't mentioned specifically, the Wall Street Journal recently published an article regarding buy local campaigns. You should take note if the big boys are spreading the word!!!
Speaking of spreading the word- you can follow us on twitter now!!
@buylocalreno
@buylocalsparks
Keep up the hard work!!!
Just wanted to point out a few cool things in the Buy Local world as of late.
First of all, Self Employed Magazine has interviewed us to be part of an article coming this fall about how a buy local campaign can positively affect small businesses. I love that we have national attention before the site is even finished!!!
Although we weren't mentioned specifically, the Wall Street Journal recently published an article regarding buy local campaigns. You should take note if the big boys are spreading the word!!!
Speaking of spreading the word- you can follow us on twitter now!!
@buylocalreno
@buylocalsparks
Keep up the hard work!!!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Thanks RGJ!!
Please take a minute to read Monday's Article in the RGJ regarding this very site and the folks involved with the up and coming website.
I am writing this in response to many of the comments made on the article's web version, there are just too many points to cover them all in their format.
First and foremost, I am glad to see so many people taking the time to discuss a relevant topic. I believe that forward thinking and educated debate are the catalyst for positive change.
As for the comments about Butcher Boy's prices- can't really argue the fact that you can find CHEAPER products elsewhere. As was said many times in the comments, you get what you pay for. It was mentioned that we raised our prices after we filed for bankruptcy, in fact, it was the exact opposite. Our prices on just about every meat item we sell were dropped roughly 10% last July and the same pricing structure holds true today.
In regards to the comments about service and return policies concerning local vendors, I wholeheartedly believe that any longstanding local business will do more than asked to gain and keep your business. The most arguable reason to shop with local business is the heartfelt personal attention to your satisfaction. Now I realize that there are exceptions to every rule in both local and national business, you can't pigeonhole one or the other into a good or bad category.
The reason that many local businesses are participating in Buy Local "campaigns" is simple, in general our sales are suffering. No reason to hide the fact. It seems as though some folks take this as asking for a handout. This could not be further from the truth. We are simply attempting to show consumers that their is a benefit to buying locally (more on that in a minute). The fact that we are locally owned and operated is something that no one can take away or argue. All we ask is that you give us a try and if you don't see a value in your business with us then it is our fault in one form or another. I do not believe that I have any more rights to your money than a national chain, and I believe that if I do not earn your business then I do not deserve it.
The numbers are simple- when you buy from a local business, more of those dollars stay in the community. There are many studies giving different points of view-
The American Independent Business Alliance has a short article that sums it up quickly.
There are quite a few regional and industry based studies on Buy Local Berkeley's site.
And a good opinion from American Public Media.
In fact, Businessweek put it his way-
"Spending at local businesses, rather than at chain stores or online, helps local economies because those firms are more likely to buy from local suppliers and hire local service providers for needs such as accounting. The jobs that those dollars support stay in the community, rather than going to chains that consolidate their suppliers and back-office functions elsewhere. The profits, too, stay with local owners who spend in the community, rather than going to out-of-state owners or shareholders."
I encourage everyone to search out the info and make a decision on their own merit, instead of listening to others' points of view.
It seems like Wal Mart was brought up, yet again, as the posterchild for "anti local" arguments. Anyone who knows me personally knows my personal views on Wal Mart and why I choose not to shop there. North Carolina State University has an article that seems to sum it up nicely and objectionably.
One of the largest factors affecting local business is the support received from city and state entities. It is a known fact that STAR bonds are widely used by Wal Mart, Cabela's and Scheel's to develop their stores. I have not seen any assistance of this magnitude geared towards local business. Quite simply, these are the kinds of programs that make it harder and harder every year for small companies to do business. The Reno News and Review has been covering the STAR bond issue well as of late.
There were also many comments regarding where the products are actually produced or made. It is simply impossible for any business to source every product they sell locally. But, many local businesses make it a point to seek out and trade with other local businesses especially with administrative services.
In a nutshell- all I ask is that you take the time to understand what is best for you, your family and your community. I understand that it may cost more at times and that not everyone can afford it now, we are all in the same boat. Be conscious of the effects that your daily spending and activities have on everyone. And give a local guy a CHANCE to win your business, it is up to him to keep it.
-CJ-
I am writing this in response to many of the comments made on the article's web version, there are just too many points to cover them all in their format.
First and foremost, I am glad to see so many people taking the time to discuss a relevant topic. I believe that forward thinking and educated debate are the catalyst for positive change.
As for the comments about Butcher Boy's prices- can't really argue the fact that you can find CHEAPER products elsewhere. As was said many times in the comments, you get what you pay for. It was mentioned that we raised our prices after we filed for bankruptcy, in fact, it was the exact opposite. Our prices on just about every meat item we sell were dropped roughly 10% last July and the same pricing structure holds true today.
In regards to the comments about service and return policies concerning local vendors, I wholeheartedly believe that any longstanding local business will do more than asked to gain and keep your business. The most arguable reason to shop with local business is the heartfelt personal attention to your satisfaction. Now I realize that there are exceptions to every rule in both local and national business, you can't pigeonhole one or the other into a good or bad category.
The reason that many local businesses are participating in Buy Local "campaigns" is simple, in general our sales are suffering. No reason to hide the fact. It seems as though some folks take this as asking for a handout. This could not be further from the truth. We are simply attempting to show consumers that their is a benefit to buying locally (more on that in a minute). The fact that we are locally owned and operated is something that no one can take away or argue. All we ask is that you give us a try and if you don't see a value in your business with us then it is our fault in one form or another. I do not believe that I have any more rights to your money than a national chain, and I believe that if I do not earn your business then I do not deserve it.
The numbers are simple- when you buy from a local business, more of those dollars stay in the community. There are many studies giving different points of view-
The American Independent Business Alliance has a short article that sums it up quickly.
There are quite a few regional and industry based studies on Buy Local Berkeley's site.
And a good opinion from American Public Media.
In fact, Businessweek put it his way-
"Spending at local businesses, rather than at chain stores or online, helps local economies because those firms are more likely to buy from local suppliers and hire local service providers for needs such as accounting. The jobs that those dollars support stay in the community, rather than going to chains that consolidate their suppliers and back-office functions elsewhere. The profits, too, stay with local owners who spend in the community, rather than going to out-of-state owners or shareholders."
I encourage everyone to search out the info and make a decision on their own merit, instead of listening to others' points of view.
It seems like Wal Mart was brought up, yet again, as the posterchild for "anti local" arguments. Anyone who knows me personally knows my personal views on Wal Mart and why I choose not to shop there. North Carolina State University has an article that seems to sum it up nicely and objectionably.
One of the largest factors affecting local business is the support received from city and state entities. It is a known fact that STAR bonds are widely used by Wal Mart, Cabela's and Scheel's to develop their stores. I have not seen any assistance of this magnitude geared towards local business. Quite simply, these are the kinds of programs that make it harder and harder every year for small companies to do business. The Reno News and Review has been covering the STAR bond issue well as of late.
There were also many comments regarding where the products are actually produced or made. It is simply impossible for any business to source every product they sell locally. But, many local businesses make it a point to seek out and trade with other local businesses especially with administrative services.
In a nutshell- all I ask is that you take the time to understand what is best for you, your family and your community. I understand that it may cost more at times and that not everyone can afford it now, we are all in the same boat. Be conscious of the effects that your daily spending and activities have on everyone. And give a local guy a CHANCE to win your business, it is up to him to keep it.
-CJ-
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Upcoming Website
First of all, I promise- we ARE working on a new website to help everyone find all the cool local businesses in town. Johanna from Media Directions, Andy at EFG and I sat down this week to hash out the details.
Basic details include a searchable database of businesses so you can simply type in what you want to find, just like google. The participating businesses will have their contact info and links to websites, blogs, etc. right in the results. There will also be a Buy Local newsletter produced at least monthly that will be an outlet for sharing upcoming events, promotions and profiles of local businesses, and probably articles written by local experts in their field.
As for a timeline, should be going live in July or early August. We are striving to have the site built for the long term and want to take the time to develop a solid foundation before it goes live. This will be the biggest and baddest Buy Local website in Reno.
Our plan for the site is to create enough revenue to make it self sufficient and beneficial to everyone. A "membership" with listing will be very inexpensive and on an annual basis. We are not trying to make a buck off of the site and we plan to publicly share, right on the site, to enforce the transparent attitude.
I am tasked with collecting 50 or so local businesses that we can get signed up on the site before the launch. The first group of pre launch businesses will get their listing for free for a period of time. Please e-mail me if you are interested and pass it on to friends that may be.
We will share previews of the site as soon as we have a base to build on. Maybe even let you vote on them!
Thanks for continuing to support local businesses!!!
-CJ-
Basic details include a searchable database of businesses so you can simply type in what you want to find, just like google. The participating businesses will have their contact info and links to websites, blogs, etc. right in the results. There will also be a Buy Local newsletter produced at least monthly that will be an outlet for sharing upcoming events, promotions and profiles of local businesses, and probably articles written by local experts in their field.
As for a timeline, should be going live in July or early August. We are striving to have the site built for the long term and want to take the time to develop a solid foundation before it goes live. This will be the biggest and baddest Buy Local website in Reno.
Our plan for the site is to create enough revenue to make it self sufficient and beneficial to everyone. A "membership" with listing will be very inexpensive and on an annual basis. We are not trying to make a buck off of the site and we plan to publicly share, right on the site, to enforce the transparent attitude.
I am tasked with collecting 50 or so local businesses that we can get signed up on the site before the launch. The first group of pre launch businesses will get their listing for free for a period of time. Please e-mail me if you are interested and pass it on to friends that may be.
We will share previews of the site as soon as we have a base to build on. Maybe even let you vote on them!
Thanks for continuing to support local businesses!!!
-CJ-
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Ads and Participants
Coming Thursday in the RN&R- big thanks to these guys for the support!!!!
Also, a list of the participants can be found here....Vendor List. Please let me know if you see any errors so I can get them fixed.
Looking forward to a great event!!! Working on the final layout and will pass that along ASAP.
Thanks to all!!!
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