Local Washing - When "Buying Local" Isn't Really Local

AFP/Getty Images
Download
Sept. 17, 2009

Communities around the country are signing on for the ‘Buy Local’ movement. Encouraging consumers to shop within their zip code creates local jobs, conserves energy and – most importantly – returns dollars to the local economy. But what does the “local” label really mean? Is it strictly for the mom-and-pops, or does it include your neighborhood Starbucks or Target store? Some big corporations have even been accused of “local washing” – disguising their big-box roots with indy-flavored marketing campaigns. What does local flavor taste like to you?

Web Resources


Also on this episode

Guests:
Stacy Mitchell, Senior Researcher with The Institute for Local Self-Reliance

Tamara Johnston-McMahon – one of the founders of Buy Local Pasadena, and owner of Anti-Body, skin care company distributed in 10,000 Villages, Whole Foods, etc.

Malachy Kavanagh, vice president of communications for the International Council of Shopping Centers

Comments disabled after 14 days