I hold my hands up. I shop in supermarkets. They offer a wide range of products, are able to offer competitive prices and maximum efficiency. And you know what, in most cases I don't feel too guilty. There's a school of thought that you should support local businesses, and of course I agree, but when in many cases the supermarkets offer better produce for less cash and all under one roof, what's the incentive to shop elsewhere?
Cranston's is my local butcher, and I always try to get my meat there. I should add that I don't buy meat too often as I'm the only one in my house that eats non-chicken flesh (the one exception to my wife's otherwise red meat-free palate being Cranston's unsmoked bacon). The quality is great, and the service offered by the staff second to none. They'll give you hints on all manner of selecting, keeping and cooking their fare. There's only satisfaction in supporting local businesses if you feel that you're also getting a good deal. Cranston's is a wonderful illustration of how smaller shops can compete against the supermarkets. Offer a friendly, expert service and an excellent quality product and the customer has no incentive whatsoever to shop elsewhere. read more