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join the movement of a lifetime

Local First works to encourage and educate our Hibiscus Coast Community about the importance and strong economic benefits of supporting our locally owned businesses, movements and events.

Intention

Our intention is to recycle money locally, whilst encouriaging stability and growth through the promotion of our local small town culture, values, and heritage for the betterment of our community

Mission statement

co-creating the develoment of the Hibiscus Coast grounded in local ownership

Vision Statement

The Hibiscus Coast as a chosen. destination again, with a thriving & joyful community and ever-increasing social wealth

                                                                                                          Join the Local First Movement!

Why Join?

Local First isn’t just a directory—it’s a celebration of our community’s unique spirit. We make it fun and easy to discover and support the hidden gems, local businesses, and vibrant culture that make our towns special.

Your Mission, Our Passion

We’re here to amplify your voice! Tag us @localfirsthc and use the hashtag #thelocalfirstchallenge

Together, We’re Building

  • An easy-to-use platform to find and support local businesses, events, and hidden treasures on the South Coast.
  • A movement that celebrates and empowers local businesses.
  • A stronger local economy that benefits everyone.

Our Story

Born from the Hibiscus Coast Seconds (HCS) group during the challenges of COVID, Local First’s mission is to revitalize our local economy. We’ve created a platform where businesses get unique Google listings and exposure to over 50,000 locals on our platforms. By using #thelocalfirstchallenge, businesses proudly show their commitment to the community – it’s been used over 50,000 times, and we love sharing the positive stories!

Our Vision

We’re passionate about creating opportunities for skilled, passionate people ready to deliver exceptional service. We envision a thriving Hibiscus Coast where everyone with a growth mindset can succeed.

Join Us

Know someone who’d love #thelocalfirstchallenge or to be a #localgemspotlight? Ready to put your business on the map? Let’s build a stronger, more vibrant community together!

Passion driven.

Do you ever feel like people shy away from responsibility because they think they don’t matter? At Local First, we’re challenging that idea. We believe everyone has the power to make a real difference in their community. Together, we’re making “supporting local” not just a catchphrase, but a reality that benefits us all. It’s about keeping our money circulating locally, creating a healthier, more balanced economy right here at home.

Our mission is simple: Build relationships. Nurture community. Boost the local economy.

Think of Local First as your one-stop marketplace for connecting with your community. We’re building a space where you can easily discover, review, and support everything from your favourite local restaurants to the most reliable service providers. We want to make it fun and effortless to rally behind our local businesses.

It’s about fostering a sense of togetherness and reminding us all of the incredible economic and social benefits of keeping our money local. It’s about keeping those rands out of the pockets of big national chains and reinvesting them in our own backyard.

At its core, Local First is about building a united community that’s passionate about making the Hibiscus Coast the best it can be. Let’s work together to revitalize our home and create a place we’re not just proud to live in, but proud to be a part of.

Kirsty Hooper, Founder