In our fast paced and time-crunched days as business professionals, we are always looking for the fastest and most effective way to get our jobs done. Which is why, when it comes to sourcing swag and corporate gifts, it’s so easy to turn to the same old large suppliers. Yes, they are predictable and dependable and it also helps that they are already set up in the company supplier database and purchasing from them will be seamless. Am I on track so far?
Look we get it, but as you know, there are many social and environmental problems with the products from some of these large nameless faceless manufacturers - which we are NOT going to get into here.
We’re here to tell you that sourcing from small local businesses can be just as easy!
But first, in case you need a reminder as to why sourcing from small local businesses is a good idea, here are 5!
1. Competitive Advantage
We know that the quality and message of a gift speaks volumes, and can make a mediocre experience fantastic OR can make a great experience disappointing. There is much at stake - this can make a difference in attracting a new customer or employee and whether you retain valued customers and employees. We aim to make a great experience even better - with a gift that serves as a lasting and valued reminder that your brand is better than the rest.
2. Unique and Customized Options
Small businesses often offer a level of personalization and uniqueness that larger corporations simply cannot match. Whether it's handcrafted goods, artisanal products, or customizable items, these businesses take pride in offering gifts that stand out and leave a lasting impression.
3. Low Cost, Fast & Flexible Service
When you buy locally you save on shipping and exchange rates. You get a faster turnaround on projects with vendors that offer more flexibility and are more accommodating when it comes to meeting your specific needs and preferences. Whether you require bulk orders, custom branding, or unique packaging, we work closely with you to fulfill your requirements.
4. Environmental Sustainability
Not only are there lower emissions due to local shipping, but also, small businesses often lead the way in sustainable business practices. You can align your brand to vendors with the same environmentally responsible values. Here’s how we define “Eco-Friendly” Vendors:
- Product Materials : Products are made with recycled, upcycled, vegan, organic, or plastic-free materials, or are refill products.
- Packaging : Product packaging is reduced-weight or is made with recycled, recyclable, or plastic-free materials.
- Production : Products are created with ethical sourcing, low-impact transport, renewable energy, fair trade, or cruelty-free methods.
5. Building Communities and our Economy
By choosing to support small Canadian businesses for your corporate gifts, you're not just making a transaction – you're introducing these businesses to your recipients creating a ripple effect of opportunity that helps these businesses grow, create jobs and foster economic development.
So why not consider small local business gift options for your next activation?
By infusing small business vendor gifts into your gift campaigns, you can make a lasting positive impact on your recipients, community and bottom line.
The Conscious Collective is committed to bringing unique and innovative, corporate appropriate, small Canadian business gift options to our corporate clients via our growing vendor collective. We do all the work to vet vendors so you don’t have to!
Explore our offerings:
- Visit our site to see our Collective’s Vendor Criteria
- Become a Covet Club Member for 10% off direct purchases of our Collective’s products
- Start a Custom Project with us and let us take care of everything from sourcing and design to fulfillment and shipping.
We would love to help with your next project! Book time with us here.