08/13/2026
We all know how expensive it can be to live on Vancouver Island these days. We’re all feeling it at the grocery store, at the gas pumps, and pretty much everywhere else.
Most of us like the idea of shopping local, whether it’s picking up eggs at a farm gate, visiting a farmers’ market, or buying something from a local small business. But here’s something worth keeping in mind: even when you’re shopping at the big box stores, take a look at where things come from.
If you have a choice, look for something that was grown locally, raised locally, or produced locally. Every little bit helps keep those dollars circulating here and supports the farmers, producers and businesses that call Vancouver Island home.
We’re pretty lucky to have so many local producers and vendors right here in the Cowichan Valley — from the downtown Duncan market to farm stands, roadside sales and markets throughout the Valley and up and down Vancouver Island.
We may not be able to buy local every single time, and that’s okay. We all have budgets to work with.
But when you can… buy local, support local, and keep our communities strong. 🌱🤝
Every little purchase makes a difference.
