An overwhelming majority of Quebecers (90%) say encouraging small local businesses is important to them, according to a survey conducted by Maru/Matchbox for the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).

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Nationally, this proportion reaches 86%.

The survey released Monday also reveals that 73% of respondents in Quebec, and 66% in Canada, say they make an effort to buy from small businesses rather than large online retailers.

The desire to "support their community" is the main reason that leads them to favor small local businesses (for 56% of Canadians), followed by the "desire to help SMEs succeed" (50%), welcoming staff (46%), convenience or proximity (40%), unique and quality items (38%) and good prices (29%).

“People like to find their favorite products close to their homes and are sensitive to the contribution of local businesses to our economy. Consumers are sending a very strong message of support for buying local,” said François Vincent, vice-president at the CFIB.

Half of SMEs are in debt

According to the most recent CFIB data, 55% of SMEs in Quebec still have below-normal revenues (54% in Canada), 63% have pandemic debt (62% in Canada) and 70% feel persistent pandemic stress ( 78% nationwide).

“There is no good or bad time to take the time to support local purchasing. It is an everyday action. And when we practice it, it's a bit like celebrating our favorite small businesses,” added Mr. Vincent.

The survey was conducted on June 15, 2022 with 1,516 Canadians.