Expert advice on your questions

Shannon Binns, Executive Eirector, Sustain Charlotte: 
Begin by setting inspiring goals to boost your buy-local efforts and then communicate those goals to both your team and the public. By making your goals public, you will not only attract local suppliers you may not have known about, but also new customers who will want to support your efforts.  Be sure and engage your employees by asking for their ideas. Consider an employee contest to see who can come up with the best ways for sourcing locally. Reward the winners by recognizing them and offering prizes — and make it fun.  READ MORE