thebestof Guernsey's BUY LOCAL campaign encourages islanders to support local businesses where they can.  We are delighted with the enthusiasm shown for the campaign which in the last year has really taken off with a significant growth in supporters.

The aim of the campaign is to highlight to the public the benefits of buying from and supporting the very best local businesses whilst encouraging people to be vocal in their support of these businesses.

Our Buy Local Facebook page now has a growing following of over 500 people.  The page is for local businesses of any size to promote their products and services to the local community.  It also is a hub for people to read about local news and information.

We are asking islanders to support the campaign and to use, wherever possible, local shops and small businesses which are vital to the economy of the island.  

Many local businesses are proudly displaying the Buy Local stickers in their windows, vehicles and even on their packaging!  

Perelle Butchery has repackaged their Sizzler Sausages with Buy Local labels, Bluchip vans and Sarnia Estate Agents company cars can be seen around the island displaying their Buy Local stickers.

We are delighted to see many local businesses also add the Buy Local Logo to their website and company email signature including Office Projects, The Berries Bakery and Body & Sole.  

Local shops and small businesses are at the very heart of our community and play an extremely important part in the health of Guernsey's economy. The reality is that big national chains and online shopping often don't match the local businesses customer service, product knowledge or hands on experience.

It can be tough running a business in Guernsey.  Business owners need to cope with a lot; recession, the rise in online competition, high rents, and the weather!  Whatever has been thrown at them, so many local business owners work hard to provide a dedicated service to their customers. We applaud them and would like to encourage others to 'Buy Local' and support our amazing local businesses.

We will be pushing the campaign in 2013 with a BUY LOCAL WEEK from 3rd to 9th June.  During this week we will be celebrating local businesses and highlighting the reasons local people should support them.  More details about Buy Local Week will be announced in the new year.

If you too would like to support the Buy Local campaign you can do the following:

- Email guernsey@thebestof.co.uk or phone 01481 246822 to request your Buy Local stickers or Logo

- Like the Buy Local Facebook Page

- Use #buylocalgsy when tweeting about local businesses

- Join the Buy Local Supporters Pledge

We would like to thank you for your support in spreading the Buy Local message.