Because you can't digitise a scone!

In the ever-evolving landscape of our modern economy, it’s easy to get swept away by the allure of technological advancements and corporate giants. We may feel it’s inevitable and are buckled in for the ride – but more and more I think about that will mean in terms of the invisible architecture of our lives - and I'm concerned.

As human beings, we are hard wired to connect. To feel like we belong. Local, small businesses play a big part in that sense of belonging. These businesses are more than just economic entities; they are the lifeblood of our daily lives, feeding us, employing us, assuring us, minding our kids, and giving us those cherished moments of fun and relaxation.

• The catch up with your friends over a cup of coffee or a delicious dinner.
• Saying hello to your neighbours in the local shop, buying milk for tomorrow’s breakfast.
• Knowing that the day care centre minds our loved ones like cut glass.
• Laughing that the fella that services your car will be togging out for the local team on Saturday evening – so don’t break down at the weekend!

Those small businesses are under pressure.

Imagine a world where these community-rooted businesses vanish, leaving us with nothing but technology-driven alternatives. 3-D printed burgers anyone? Who will provide the personal touch, the warmth, and the genuine care that our small business owners do? Who will make our tourists feel welcome? In times of need, who will love our loved ones as their own, offering solace and support that goes beyond a transaction?

The potential loss of these businesses raises a critical question: Are we merely an economy, or are we a society? It’s a thought-provoking dilemma that challenges us to reflect on our values and priorities.

If we want vibrant villages and towns, with services and entertainment that means the people who live there must do business there, spend our money there. It cannot happen in a vacuum . Online shopping shifts the revenue (and the taxes that pay for services we want) offshore.

Let’s champion our small businesses, recognizing their irreplaceable role in our communities. By doing so, we preserve not just an economy, but the very fabric of our society. It is worth preserving - now and into the future.

#SupportSmallBusiness #CommunityFirst #SocietyVsEconomy