We never realize in our busy lives, the consequences of our actions.  We all complain from time to time about the lack of choice for shopping in our communities and look to the larger centers for our needs.  Regardless of the size of a community we all believe deals are to be found in larger centers.  But at what cost to our local economy?  A recent report indicates that 54% of our total grocery/food expenditures are made outside of the Paintearth region.  This represents almost $8 million in expenditure leakage of total annual expenditures of $14.8 million.  This does not account for other goods and services available throughout our region.  I also recognize the fact that many people use this shopping trip as a social activity.  But is that item you purchased elsewhere actually cheaper factoring in the cost of travel, food etc?  What does this mean in relation to PEPS?  Consider the fact that new businesses look at the economic data when making decisions about potential locations.  If businesses see this information, and they will, why would they locate here instead of say Red Deer, or Stettler?  The Paintearth region has many positive attributes for attracting people to the region.  However, business and industry mean jobs and new families to our communities.  Business pays a greater proportion of the tax burden, allowing residents a higher quality of life.  Many businesses not only provide financial support for fundraisers, community groups and other school activities, but they also share their knowledge and personal support as well.  Businesses outside our region typically do not share their profits to support our communities. 

 


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 PEPS - Paintearth Economic Partnership Society
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