7th Nov 2024 update // Celebrating Local Business!

I had a chat last week with the owner of a small business here in Warkworth. During our conversation, they said something that stuck with me: “I’d probably be better off working at a supermarket, where I could clock out at the end of the day and not worry about staff rosters, taxes, suppliers, or council fees.”

This comment got me thinking about how business owners are often perceived. There’s a common belief that business owners are raking it in, while all the pressure falls on their workers. But those of us who have been in business know the reality is quite different. In fact, around 97% of businesses in New Zealand are classified as small to medium, and making a success of any business is no easy feat.

Sure, people might think that being a business owner means you have the freedom to come and go as you please. But they don’t see the late nights and weekends spent trying to balance the books, worrying about whether they can pay the suppliers, the tax office, and their staff. Often, paying themselves comes last on the list.

These are the things that keep many business owners awake at night. Of course, some businesses do well, but people don’t always see the hard work and long hours it took to get them there, or the personal sacrifices along the way.

So, why am I mentioning this? Because when you look at our local business owners, I want you to remember that they’ve invested more than just money and time into their businesses. Often, their homes are tied up in it, too. For them, this isn’t just a job—it’s their future. They’re responsible not only for their business but also for the wellbeing of their staff. You’d be surprised how often wages are paid out, but the owner is left without a paycheck.

I know people might be tired of hearing me push the “Buy Local” message, but these businesses are the backbone of our community. They deserve our support and respect for the risks they’ve taken and the effort they’ve put in.

The answer is simple: Buy Local. Support Local. Employ Local. Love Local.

We really are stronger together.