We all like to see local entrepreneurs and businesses succeed. That’s why it’s been especially difficult watching the impact that COVID-19 has had on so many businesses.
We can all do our part to help these businesses survive and thrive by changing our buying habits to support local and Canadian businesses first. This isn't a groundbreaking idea, but it’s at times like this that we're reminded that it's local brands and businesses that create jobs, support our communities, give us unique products, and bring dollars back to our communities. If given the choice, we should always try to support our homegrown businesses first. But for those who haven’t considered it before, or just haven’t made it a priority, there’s never been a better opportunity.
When making the shift to prioritizing local products and businesses, you could be surprised to discover that some of your favourite products are Canadian made without you even realizing it.
Take SoCIAL LITE, for example — a big hit at the LCBO — that's released three new products this summer. At less than 100 calories, zero sugar, and zero carbs, it isn’t exactly a difficult choice. But add in the fact that it's from right here in Whitby, Ontario? It's no wonder why it's a go-to for tons of us.
Whitby is home to a host of former pro-hockey and football players, one of the winners of Canada’s Next Top Model, and SoCIAL LITE. That’s right, this delicious ready-to-drink vodka soda started in the beautiful lakeside town about 50 kilometres east of Toronto, in the kitchen of one of its three co-founders. It was actually the first canned vodka soda available in Canada in 2014.
Another bonus? Your contributions (buying tasty vodka sodas — what a burden, we know) are having a wider impact on SoCIAL LITE’s mission to support fellow homegrown businesses. Last month, they put out their "Dinner and Drinks" campaign to help support tons of local restaurants nationwide.
So you could be doing your part just by drinking local. It doesn't get any easier than that.
SoCIAL LITE’s new Bold Soda is the strongest vodka soda yet, with a splash of real orange juice that gives it a smooth and fresh flavour that’s not too sweet. The Triple Berry vodka soda is the latest in their collection of light and bubbly beverages with a medley of berry flavours that taste like summer. And their first-ever Gin Soda offers subtle gin flavour with natural, crisp nodes of lime and cucumber that refreshes with each sip.
Since this vodka soda came on the scene and stole many hearts years ago, the competition has exploded. What was once a small imprint in the liquor store, ready-to-drink vodka sodas have taken over the aisles. Now there are a number of new spiked seltzers clawing for attention, but SoCIAL LITE is independently owned, operated, and made in Canada.
In uncertain times like these, it’s a no brainer to support local businesses and products. Whether it’s with the purchase of a can of SoCIAL LITE, a takeout order from your neighbourhood mom-and-pop shop for Canada Takeout Day every Wednesday, or a curbside pickup from your favourite flower shop, make your next purchase a local one in honour of our incredible Canadians businesses and entrepreneurs.
SoCIAL LITE's Ready-To-Drink Vodka Sodas
Price:
- Individual can: $2.70
- Pack of 4: $9.95
- Pack of 6: $13.95
Where: Locate a store near you here.
Why You Need It: Because with summer right around the corner, supporting local and indulging in a healthier cocktail option has never tasted so good.