Keeping it local
Buying and supporting local has never been more important than it is right now and the benefits of customers buying local are becoming more widely recognised and appreciated.
As we push to help our local communities, we know that when we support local businesses, artists and makers, we are supporting a dream, helping a student gain their education, helping a mum or dad put food on the table and pay a mortgage plus so much more.
But what about manufacturers supporting local suppliers? Do you know where the materials come from that your local Artisan used in their work? You’d be right in saying that Aussie manufacturing is harder to come by than it used to be, especially when it comes to sourcing materials for small creative businesses.
Many big manufacturers are now beginning to take a second look at how much they rely on imported supplies. Climbing prices, unpredictability with import agreements and disappointing quality from offshore suppliers are contributing to this shift we are seeing, but adding to the trend is a change in attitudes; it’s estimated that 72% of industrial B2B buyers prefer to source locally!
Often the perception is that offshore is cheaper and more competitive, but is this really true and what benefits are there for someone like myself in supporting local suppliers?
One of my biggest passions in my business is to find local suppliers and raw materials wherever I can and if that’s not possible to at lease purchase them through an Australian business rather than directly overseas. In doing this, I have discovered I can be just as competitive plus there are also many other benefits. Lets look at a few great benefits of sourcing local:
Speed to market
Improved speed to market - not having to warehouse as much stock or have that stock tied up in overseas shipping or customs.
Greater Control
Gaining greater control over a design or production process and the ability to make changes more readily. Often being able to do smaller runs to accommodate changing needs and improve speed to market.
Ethical Integrity
Maintaining ethical integrity by knowing where the labour is from and not unknowingly be supporting corrupt practises or organized crime.
Budget more accurately
Being able to have more visibility over costs and accurately budget - No hidden transport costs, taxes, fluctuating exchange rates, travel expenses, lawyer or buyer fees, added administration costs and other legal considerations, all add extra possibilities for expenses that can quickly erode profitability.
Ease cashflow
Freeing up storage and warehouse space for more frequent orders can help with cash flow and inventory control.
Build relationships
And finally there’s the development of partnerships and relationships that are easier and often quicker to build by working with suppliers and small business that are local and better understand the landscape of your business. Also working with locals can also be a more positive way to align your businesses missions, values and culture as well as open up more opportunities to be involved in meaningful community events and initiatives.
As you can see there are many benefits to sourcing local suppliers wherever possible. Over the years I have found I can also be just as competitive too whilst supporting local families and communities.
I would like to tell you more about where some of the materials come from that I use for my products.
Design and Printing
The design of my logo and artwork are produced by a local graphic designer and all print materials are printed just 10 minutes north of Brisbane. (This includes all earring backing cards, product labels, thank you cards and marketing materials).
Stamps and Signage
All the laser cut stamps I use to brand the backs my ceramics and signage for events, are created by a local sign maker here in Brisbane.
Jewellery
The bamboo tops and silver hooks of my hanging earrings are made locally in Brisbane.
All the studded backs to my earrings are purchased from an Australian business who imports them from the USA.
Raw Materials
All my raw ceramic materials such as clays, glazes, firing equipment, tools etc. are purchased through various Australian small businesses in; Brisbane, New South Whales, South Australia and Victoria.
Strings and Cords
All strings and cords used on products are purchased directly through a Gold Coast owner operated business and are sourced from sustainable and fair trade offshore providers.
Candles
The candles featured in my online shop are supplied by a local company and sourced from only sustainable and fair trade manufacturers.
Native Smudge Sticks
The native smudge sticks in my online shop are wild foraged in NSW and purchased directly through a NSW owner operated business.
Soaps
The soaps in my online shop are handcrafted by a local Brisbane maker and all materials are sourced from high quality Australian suppliers.
Gift Cards
Gift cards featured in my shop are handmade here in Australia by local artists. Some are actually hand drawn or painted originals! All card are made in small batches and print runs.
Photography
All photography is either done by myself or by using a local photographer here in The Gap. I have used a few photographers and they are all fantastic and I would be happy to recommend them. If you are looking for product photography please email me for more details.
Need help finding the perfect Aussie made gift?
