The Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA), in partnership with the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce the first cohort of successful Local Link participants. All eight businesses have been awarded the Local Link Gold label, the program’s highest level. Local Link is designed to help consumers who want to buy local understand where their dollars most support the Saskatoon Region. By checking for the Gold, Silver or Bronze Local Link label, shoppers can learn more about how close to their home a product or service is created.
“Local Link strengthens our support of the local economy at a time when doing so is vital,” said Alex Fallon, SREDA President and CEO. “Not only does the program help consumers shop in a way that benefits the Saskatoon Region economy, but it also aids us in understanding the landscape of local suppliers. We assess the procurement and outsourcing activities of participating businesses, allowing us to find gaps in the local supply chain that present opportunities for potential growth and new jobs.”
“Having a clearer understanding of the products and services available within our region is key to supporting local,” said Jaimie Malmgren, Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce Executive Director. “The Local Link program is a valuable tool that will play a key role in increasing awareness and enabling consumers to make more informed decisions.”
“The Chamber is thrilled to partner with SREDA on the Local Link program,” said Margot Orr, Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, Director of Policy and Government Relations. “Now more than ever we recognize the importance of supporting local businesses.”
Saskatoon Region businesses can apply to the program to work with SREDA in measuring how locally they operate, from ownership to procurement, and can use the process to find ways of increasing their local engagement in the Saskatoon Region economy. Participants are then given a Local Link label corresponding to their level of localization.
“Pine View Farms All Natural Meats is excited to work with SREDA as a Local Link participant,” said Melanie Boldt, Co-Owner of Pine View Farms. “Local Link bridges the knowledge gap for consumers so they can understand which businesses are truly local in their area. Consumers can trust the rating system of Local Link and have confidence that their hard earned dollars are going back into their local community to create jobs, investment and opportunities for growth in Saskatoon. What a great way to support the community in which we all live and love!”
The first eight participants included a range of businesses from various sectors across the Saskatoon Region:
• Pine View Farms
• 9 Mile Legacy Brewing Company
• Pristine Kitchen Systems Inc.
• Refresh Inn and Suites
• Apex Performance Consultants Ltd.
• Prairie Packaging Inc.
• ICR Commercial Real Estate (Property Management)
• Black Fox Farm and Distillery
The businesses were awarded Local Link Gold because of their high level of local purchasing and engagement.
“We’ve intuitively known this for some time in Saskatchewan, but the COVID-19 pandemic made it crystal clear – making purchasing decisions as a consumer and business owner that support our local suppliers and industries has a resounding economic impact,” said Shawn Moen, CEO and Co-Founder at 9 Mile Legacy Brewing Company. “As a consumer, Local Link provides you a window into the economic impact of our local businesses and helps you make intentional purchasing decisions. As a business owner, it gives you a roadmap to understand how to meaningfully grow your business operations and recognition for prioritizing high quality local options.”
Applications for Local Link are now open.