The City of Brantford is urging residents to support small businesses as holiday shopping ramps up, emphasizing the economic impact of keeping spending within the community.
According to municipal economic data, each dollar spent at a small business returns 66 cents to the local economy, compared with 11 cents when spent at a multinational retailer.
City officials say the difference is especially significant during the peak shopping season.
“Shopping local has a meaningful and measurable impact,” said Mae Legg, Manager of Economic Development for the City of Brantford.
“Each time you choose to support a local business, you’re giving twice — once to your loved one and once to the community.”
Local businesses typically rely heavily on holiday sales. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business reports that 33 per cent of small businesses across Canada depend on seasonal spending.
This year, one in five expect lower revenue, while just over half anticipate sales remaining consistent with last year.
The City says residents can show support in several ways, whether by shopping in-store or online, purchasing gift cards, or leaving reviews on Google and social media platforms.
As part of its holiday campaign, the City is inviting residents to upload photos of their favourite Brantford small businesses to LetsTalkBrantford.ca/SupportLocal by December 16, 2025.
Each photo counts as one contest entry, with participants eligible to win one of four “Shop Local” prize packages valued at $125.
Further information about the initiative and other ways to support local retailers is available at www.discoverbrantford.ca/ShopLocalHoliday.
