Cullen Saucier is trying to generate a grassroots movement for local businesses with a “Keep the Red Stick Strong—Buy Local” campaign. Saucier, an owner of Louisiana Office Supply, recently started distributing a bright red handout with the slogan. He’s hoping to draw more businesses and do more through cooperative advertising. “We want people to buy local and we think it’s right,” he says. “People don’t really understand that money is going out-of-state when they buy at big chains or that the little guy is always battling against the big-box store.”
Saucier says he was thinking about launching the campaign for years, but the tough economy convinced him people would be more receptive to the message now. He says people who have been deferring purchases may be more likely to act on them if they know they’re also helping the area economy and their community. Saucier says local buying is better for the environment since it reduces the carbon footprint.—Anna Thibodeaux
