Buy local. It’s not a new concept, but one that is not often practiced or understood. Especially given the American mindset in which we’re entitled to get whatever we want, from wherever we want, whenever we want. In the July/August 2003 issue of Utne, an article titled “Funny Money” discusses the creation of local currencies to encourage local spending, but what caught our attention was when the author stated:
“Buying local helps keep your money circulating through your hometown: paying your neighbors’ salaries, boosting local government revenues and so on. But when you fork over your cash to a national chain, your money gets whisked away in that night’s deposit.”
Apply this to beer consumption, and you’d most likely see more local beer scenes prosper and the chances of a giant national brand taking a foothold decrease. Buying local beer also promotes interest in the local brewing scene, both with consumers and business owners within the industry – bars, restaurants, package stores and whatnot. As a result your chances of drinking more fresh local beer on tap and on the shelves increases. Buy a mega-national brand and you merely strengthen its consumer reach, support its mega-advertising campaign, and corporate lifestyle; while taking dollars, tap handles, shelf space and potential jobs away from local breweries. That is not cool.
There are many ways to support your local beer scene, and it doesn’t mean that you have to stop buying your favorite imports. All we’re suggesting is that perhaps you think before you drink and try to introduce more local beer into your life. -Beer Advocate.com
