At We Choose Local, we’re proud to be part of a community that values connection, creativity, and conscious consumerism. Guelph is packed with incredible small businesses—each with their own story, passion, and purpose. But they thrive only when we choose them.

Here are 10 powerful reasons why shopping local through We Choose Local doesn’t just make sense—it makes a difference.

1. You’re Fueling Guelph’s Local Economy

When you buy from a local shop on We Choose Local, that money doesn’t disappear into a corporate head office. It recirculates right here in Guelph—helping your neighbours, supporting local suppliers, and strengthening the entire local economy. Even the little things, like delivery services and packaging, are often sourced locally.

2. You’re Supporting Local Jobs—And Better Ones

Yes, big box stores hire locally—but independent businesses often provide better wages, more flexible roles, and meaningful work. Local shop owners also tend to promote from within and let their employees shape the customer experience, giving them a sense of pride and purpose.

3. You’re Investing in Guelph’s Future

Local business owners live here. They’re part of our community—volunteering, donating, participating in events, and reinvesting in the city. Shopping local means supporting people who support Guelph, not just the bottom line of a distant boardroom.

4. You Help Keep Guelph Unique

Every city has a Walmart. Only Guelph has The Olive Experience, The Refill Bar, and Blue Iris Pottery. Shopping local means surrounding yourself with shops that reflect your city’s personality—not a copy-and-paste version of another place.

5. You Lower Your Environmental Footprint

Shopping locally reduces the distance goods travel and cuts down on unnecessary packaging and emissions. Plus, We Choose Local offers next-day delivery within Guelph, which is far more sustainable than national shipping logistics.

6. You Build Real Community

When your barista remembers your order or the florist asks how your garden’s doing—you’re not just a customer, you’re a neighbour. These small connections are what make living in a place feel like home.

7. You Get Overall Better Service

Local businesses depend on reputation. If something goes wrong, you’re more likely to get quick, personal attention. No waiting on hold for hours, no generic policies—just people who care and are empowered to make it right.

8. You Celebrate Guelph’s Diversity

Local shops reflect the people behind them. That means more diverse products, cultural representation, and a more inclusive shopping experience. Many of our vendors on WCL intentionally stock items you won’t find in chain stores—because they understand their customers.

9. You Get More Choice, Not Less

Chains stock what sells in the highest volume. Local businesses can experiment, listen, and bring in unique products for their loyal customers. You want a rare spice blend, handmade beeswax candles, or a custom gift? You’ll find it locally—sometimes exclusively on We Choose Local.

10. You Support the Organizations That Support You

Guelph’s local businesses are the first to donate to school fundraisers, sponsor your kid’s soccer team, or chip in for community events. When you shop with them, you’re indirectly supporting those causes too.

Choosing Local is Choosing Guelph

Shopping locally isn’t just about what you buy. It’s about how you buy, who you support, and what kind of future you want for Guelph. We’re here to make it easy, fast, and fun—bringing your favourite shops together in one place, with next-day delivery and a commitment to community.

Ready to make a difference?
Start shopping local now →