Think again....
Why Shopping on Temu, Shein, Wish, AliExpress, and Other Large Online Platforms Affects Our Communities
In the world of online shopping, it’s easy to get drawn in by the allure of Temu, Shein, Wish, AliExpress, and other big-name platforms. They offer a seemingly endless array of products at prices that can be hard to resist. But beyond the bargains, there’s a personal cost to consider, especially when it comes to our communities and the people around us. Here’s why the choices we make when shopping online matter on a personal level.
1. The Cost of Convenience
What We Lose in the Process It’s tempting to click “buy now” on a product with a low price tag, but those savings can come at a personal cost. When we shop on massive international platforms, we often bypass local businesses that are deeply woven into our communities. Think about the friendly shopkeeper who knows your name, the local online store run by someone you might have met at a community event, or the small business that sponsors your child’s sports team. Choosing these local options helps keep these personal connections alive and supports people who live and work right in our neighbour-hoods.
2. How Our Spending Choices Impact Local Lives
When we spend money on international platforms, that money leaves our local economy. This outflow affects more than just store owners—it impacts everyone in our community. For example, local shopkeepers, delivery drivers, and artisans depend on our support to make a living. By shopping locally or supporting New Zealand-based online businesses, we’re investing in people who are part of our community, from the small business owner to the delivery person. It’s about choosing to support the individuals who contribute to our shared local life.
3. The Value of Personal Relationships
One of the joys of shopping locally is the personal touch. When you shop at a local store or support a New Zealand-based online business, you often build relationships with the people who run these businesses. You get personalized service, know that your needs are being cared for by someone who genuinely values your patronage, and contribute to a circle of support that strengthens the community. This personal connection is hard to find with large international platforms, where interactions are often transactional and impersonal.
4. Ethical Choices
Supporting Values That Matter Local and New Zealand-based online businesses often reflect our community values. They’re more likely to support fair labour practices and environmentally friendly practices. When you shop with these businesses, you’re supporting people who align with your values and contribute to a better world. In contrast, many international platforms may not prioritize the same ethical standards, leading to choices that might not align with your personal values.
5. The Environmental Impact of Our Choices
The environmental footprint of products shipped from far-off places is significant. By choosing local, we reduce the need for long-distance shipping, which lowers carbon emissions and packaging waste. It’s a personal decision that contributes to a healthier planet for all of us. Supporting local businesses is a way to make environmentally conscious choices that directly impact our community and future generations.
6. Building a Sense of Community
Finally, shopping locally helps foster a strong sense of community. When you support local (including NZ based online businesses), you’re helping to create a vibrant, interconnected community where everyone benefits. Local businesses often sponsor community events, support local causes, and contribute to the unique character of our neighbourhoods. Every purchase you make from a local store helps build a more connected and supportive community, making our lives richer and more fulfilling.
In Conclusion
While the appeal of Temu, Shein, Wish, AliExpress, and other large online platforms is undeniable, it’s important to consider the personal and community costs associated with shopping on these sites. By choosing to support local, you’re not just making a purchase—you’re investing in the people, values, and community that matter to you. Your choices have the power to strengthen connections, support local livelihoods, and contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant community. Next time you’re about to click “buy now,” take a moment to think about the impact of your choice and consider supporting those who are part of your local life.
