Describe a local business you know and like

🗂️ Part 2 – Cue Card

🗣️ Sample Answer

One local business I really admire is a small organic food shop called “FreshRoots”, located just five minutes from my home. It’s run by a local couple who are passionate about healthy living and sustainable practices. The shop boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, featuring wooden shelves, earthy tones, and soft instrumental music playing in the background.

FreshRoots sells a variety of organic fruits, vegetables, handmade soaps, eco-friendly products, and even homemade snacks. They also have a small café corner where you can get smoothies, herbal teas, and vegan sandwiches.

What I like most about this business is its personalised customer service. The owners always remember their regular customers, offer genuine product recommendations, and often support local farmers by stocking their produce. They also organise weekend workshops on composting and healthy cooking, which strengthens the sense of community.

Supporting this business makes me feel like I’m contributing to something meaningful. It promotes sustainability, supports local jobs, and provides unique products I can’t find in big supermarkets. It’s a great example of how a small business can make a big difference in a community.

🔁 Part 3: Follow-Up Questions

1. What are some advantages of supporting local businesses?
Supporting local businesses helps grow the community’s economy, creates local jobs, and promotes unique, culturally relevant products. It also strengthens relationships between businesses and their customers.

2. How can local businesses compete with large corporations?
They can offer personalised service, niche products, and community engagement. Utilising digital marketing and maintaining high-quality content helps them build a loyal customer base.

3. What challenges do small businesses often face?
Limited funding, lack of brand recognition, and competition from large chains are common issues. Marketing and adapting to new trends can also be tough with fewer resources.

4. How can governments support local businesses?
Governments can provide financial aid, tax benefits, training programs, and simplified licensing processes. Public events and promotions can also increase visibility for small shops.

5. Should people support local businesses even if they are more expensive?
Yes, because the money stays in the community and supports jobs. The service and quality are often better, and buying local can also reduce environmental impact.

6. What role do small businesses play in preserving culture?
They promote traditional food, art, and products, and often host local festivals. This helps maintain a community’s identity and keeps cultural practices alive.

7. How has online shopping affected local businesses?
Online shopping has increased competition, but it has also prompted local businesses to establish websites and utilise social media. With the right strategy, it can actually help them reach more customers.

8. Can collaboration between local businesses help them grow?
Absolutely. Joint promotions, events, or even shared supply chains reduce costs and expand customer bases. It also builds a stronger, more supportive business community.

9. How do local businesses contribute to sustainable development?
They often use local materials, support eco-friendly practices, and reduce transportation emissions. Many also engage in community-building activities, like education and charity.

10. What can individuals do to support local businesses?
They can choose to shop locally, spread the word through social media, attend local events, and give constructive feedback. Every small action helps local businesses thrive.

Top 10 Topic Vocabulary – Describe a local business you know and like