11 Reasons To Support The Small Independent Local Business
Life is really a story of sorts isn’t it? And we all write our own stories for the most part. So, we have to really look at what that story wants to read like.
In my case, I am a fiercely independent person, that cares deeply about my local community, and so I do my best to support local and to buy from my community, so I built a story which is a voice which represents what I am passionate about.
Real people, with ideas and drive to do their thing!
They have stories they wish to share and express so, as a person living in Bristol and being a local to Bristol, and being born and bred here, I love to watch those who wish to break free from convention or from jobs they hate, and (where possible) help those around me to thrive where I can, through a variety of ways.
In my 40 something years in Bristol, I have seen significant changes, some sad and even depressing, and other changes fresh, vibrant and progressive, so it’s been an interesting show to witness.
Certainly for me now living in the Centre of this city, I feel am lucky enough to visit many Micro and Small businesses, both local and independent, and to sample goods and services and communicate with truly hard working individuals. And even though I still visit some larger national companies, I tend to focus most on supporting the local person first.
Why? Simply because I care about where I live and where I buy from.
I prefer to support someone I can trust and experience that personal care from a passionate business owner, rather than a company I feel no connection or association with or towards.
So I am connected to my community, and I am a firm believer in buying what is around me where possible, and in whatever form that takes.
It might be a Deli, a street van, a food cart, an outlet, a small boutique shop, a key cutter or a vintage clothing trader, but no matter what the seller shares, I like to get into the story of ‘why they chose to do what they did’. That is because it matters to me to understand what a driving force was for something.
And most of the time I find a deeply animated individual who connects with their own values and sense of meaning.
Through their sense of value and doing what matters to them they are excited to share with others.
In case you didn’t know; an independent business is essentially an ownership structure, that is not owned by a larger corporation or by shareholders, but by private owners, and these types of businesses are often ran by the most (dare I say it) alive people I have met, and those whom I love to communicate with, as it’s personal to me.
What I mean by that is, I believe in being personal, friendly and respectful towards real people, don’t you?
And this is especially those that care about what they do, so I am keen to invest in them, and to buy their products and services.
Support The Small Independent Local Business
Of course we cannot deny the need for technology these days, we all use it and expect it, and with that we expect a way of business which is heavily reliant upon the right systems and technology to buy from. But also to run a business.
But regardless of the tools required, a business to me is about the people, the mission, the vision and so forth, as without that there is no real business.
And I for one am keen to ensure that people at the fore front of every small business where it matters.
The changing business landscape
Change is the only constant! Ever heard that one?
Well, it is true, and to assume things never change would be a bit ignorant, so we have to move with change to survive.
And as you probably know – we are now on the verge of a business revolution whereby the population (certainly in the U.K.) are starting to see the tremendous benefits of supporting each other through value driven and ethical small and micro businesses.
Sure, we have unquestionably been through so much in the last few years, and many people have had to change their roles, jobs, business and so on, but in some ways we have been forced to look at what we do and why we do it, and it has given birth to numerous exciting ideas.
What is coming out of this phase of doom and disaster has brought with it some of the greatest and freshest opportunities, for many years. So it has been a good thing I think, even though many might disagree.
Why is it good though?
Because we are seeing that we can shift what we do, and we can turn to each-other more for support when we do something ethically and with meaning behind it. We are seeing a greater reliance upon each-other.
Whether it is going mobile and working from home, a street van, a container business, a small shop, local markets, a mobile cart, or anything else pertaining to a privately owned enterprise, people are now ‘more than ever’ leaning towards this idea, and what’s wonderful is that when we look around us we see that we can increasingly sustain ourselves without the need from external forces.
So when I see a passionate producer of goods, such as local food producer which offers farm to table produce, or even now farm to takeout, I want to buy from them and help them out.
Good stress
There are vast and exciting opportunities today to express our greatest values, through doing what matters to us, even though it is very hard work.
But isn’t it more rewarding to do hard work that matters to us?
Somehow stress is different when we are in an area we are passionate about, as we have more invested in it.
And by having that meaning and sharing that thing with likeminded customers who are open minded and forward thinking, is a great step in our societies being able to take control over how we choose to buy and earn a living.
Maybe you have seen some of the documentaries about the USA’s vast and growing trend of street vendors who truly believe in what they do, and may even work from values passed down to them from past generations who were also deeply passionate about great produce and tradition.
Business in this sense isn’t just about ‘success’ at all, it is about what the business stands for and represents.
And just as many of us in Bristol now love to learn about the what is behind a business that we may buy from as it is a personal, we feel good in supporting that business. Everyone wins!
Through this increased consciousness of ‘care’ we demonstrate what it means to be human beings living together and making a community thrive. And this may include buying second hand clothes or buying retro or vintage clothing, in order to appreciate good quality old clothing over mass consumption and aimless purchasing.
Supporting The Small Independent Local Business
So we all can play our part and it really matters for the future.
And whether you choose to buy from or operate a business, you will find the right customers if you have a vision that is for the community. Maybe a records shop, a container food business, a fast food truck, a coffee house, or some other kind of small or micro business, you can look into how this might work. And you will likely wish to start it because it is an extension of you and what you care about and have cared about for many years.
It’s not just about the skill, knowledge and opportunity, it is about having a true belief in something.
I will share some of the places I support and believe in, and some of my favorite places around my own city, but also around the South west of the U.K. And perhaps it can inspire you to consider your next steps with regards to starting something worthy, where you live.
Wandering around my home city of Bristol
Whilst wandering through an area called Finzel’s reach near where I live, I walked across the bridge over the river, and I have seen some great transformations in the use of old factories and warehouses, which have been re-purposed as vibrant new enterprises. And this has lifted the area and made it more buoyant and animated, and through a little care and attention it has given birth to new fresh business visions.
One place I love is a wine tasting business which is a great concept.
LeVignoble is a brilliant idea whereby you can try out many different wines from around the world and help yourself to whichever you prefer. It’s a calm, civilized and stylish experience, which is a wine lovers heaven.
Not only is that appealing, but you can also buy wine in store, and even gain qualifications and arrange private wine tasting for functions.
This concept is a lounge and shop, and the Bristol site has interior which is fitted out to compliment the old pipes and brick work, and as you enjoy the décor you can find continental tapas served alongside your choices of wine.
As I wonder further around Bristol visiting various little funky places I notice at St. Nicholas food market near the Harbor-side, many smiling happy faces of satisfied customers, and I hear the sounds of frying, cooking, and boiling, and can smell a vast array of smells.
There are culinary delights on display from all corners of the globe.
It is a vibrant spot, and as I make my way through the food hall, I feel a wonderful warm atmosphere there.
I also see Vinyl record stalls, knitting shops, Cheese outlets and a larger market inside with all kinds of clothing and jewelry within it.
Not only am I lucky to live here in Bristol, and to experience all kinds of delights, it is also a great education, and it introduces me to other types of people and other cultures.
This also enables me to glimpse at the meaning behind some of these businesses, and to discover why certain flavors and ingredients are in the food, how they are a part of certain traditions and cultures.
It is the stories behind the sellers and products that I love the most.
Support for my community is something which feels natural and can be for most
Supporting growth, passion and personal ideas means I am seeing the growth which demonstrates to me that there is that hunger for something that the community needs even if that is fresh and different to what has been before.
I love when something is more personal, and I love when this idea evolves and becomes a thriving scene or movement, so I am happy to support this in every way I can, and I also feel lucky and pleased to be able to do my bit to support the local community for the future of business and for the future of a city.
Whilst many chains and multi-national companies are disappearing around me, it is clear that the online space dominates their sales now, and many are closing stores, whilst at the same time there is a clear message to me that ‘us locals’ wish to still go and try products, see, taste and smell the food and drink and whatever else we wish to physically experience, as being human it means we love something tangible to be involved with.
No matter how virtual the world becomes, and how easy it is to press a button to buy stuff, it is also separating human beings from each- other.
So what better than a small business operator who has passionately put their life and soul into their enterprise where you can speak to them, buy from them and personally experience the entire process of a purchase.
With these changes in mind, It isn’t a great surprise to see what’s going around us, and let’s face it, we may all buy something for convenience at times online, sure it can be fun, but when we look behind our actions we may see that increased local support, and action helps our own community.
Many of these hard working, passionate, driven and integrity based individuals really need our help, because of the sheer amount of obstacles they will often face, and with rising costs, it can be a testing journey.
As I am sure you know; with Covid, Brexit and other governmental factors today, many small business owners really struggle, some sadly lose businesses and others quit, and there are also those that can no longer operate in the same ways, as they were hit by the challenges and changes faced, and could no longer make ends meet.
That is why I am writing this, as I deeply believe in doing my very best to support what my community and home town offers.
And, as I have helped several Micro and Small business operations in Bristol, I know what it is like as a person who wishes to do what they love, and make it work.
Getting Out There And Supporting The Small Independent Local Business
I know that running any small business is very tough, and sometimes it’s not all sunshine and roses at all, it’s very stressful, uncertain, and at times can make you broke, so that is why I feel it is so imperative that we make the effort to play our part.
We can help our local communities, towns, villages and cities to flourish and grow in the right way through simply buying more locally sourced and locally created goods.
Sometimes we have to pay a little bit more, as it means we receive better quality – but I certainly don’t mind, and besides, it is almost impossible as a sole trader or small business seller trying to compete with large organizations that can sell quite cheaply compared. So be that person that helps to make a difference, as it helps you also.
But what might be the future of the small business in the U.K.?
It is uncertain times, and no-one can predict or guarantee the future entirely, but it is clear to see that there is a significant change that is shifting the way we do things, and us the people have strength in numbers.
But I am sure you can see with your own eyes, that little individual shops, trendy, unique cafes, and all manner of various product based Small businesses and food and drink based eateries, grills and outlets are fast dominating the common landscape, certainly here in Bristol but also in market towns where small communities are celebrating their own delights.
The first year
As I touched on before, it is not an easy task starting or running any business at all, and the first year is the most critical to survival and growth, and even though there have been many numerous issues over the last 3 years for all of us, and in seeing many small business owners sadly crash and burn, there is still an increasing opportunity for ideas to be developed.
With the right exposure to local communities we can share our stories, no matter what has come before us, and so it his no wonder that many more exciting and promising street hustles, and brands are emerging around us.
On top of this fact, we are seeing a steady increase in those who wish to now work in different environments that they are more suited to. Many people these days are fed up with large businesses becoming richer, and so the more conscious we all become the more we see that we can choose how we may work, and what we work in or on.
With this increase in awareness, Green business and sustainability are on the up, and a greater shift of doing what really matters and what has meaning is increasing, through our values and what matters personally.
So we must put in everything we have in that first year.
Here are a few tips on becoming The Small Independent Local Business Owner
- Bring your core values and express them into a model through sharing that – as people value values
- Consider what the future holds looking ahead and become a great solution – try and see a gap you can fill
- Do something that is aligned with what matters to you – as you experience greater fulfilment and satisfaction this way
- Express your passions that we may have always put to the back of our mind – as you have that opportunity today
- Speak to your community and see what their thoughts are on what you may do – gather the research and data
The shift towards simple joys
I have spoken to many small business owners who are way more satisfied, even though they may even make less money than they used to in a job they worked in.
They may even have more stress, but – it is a type of stress they can handle more than if they were in a dead end job or part of an organization that they have very little in common with.
So, bear in mind that perhaps a more simple life can be more fulfilling and rewarding in some ways with regards to doing what you feel is right for you versus doing what you have always been told is right for you.
NOTE: I am not suggesting at all that you walk out of a great job by the way, I am merely pointing out that there may be a way of doing something you love and can value, and even pass down one day.
Greatest changes in history
- Start of World War I – June 1914.
- Russian Revolution – October 1917
- Start of World War II – September 1939
- Pearl Harbour – and entry of the US into WWII – Dec. 1941
- Atomic Bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Aug 1945
- Indian Independence – Aug 1947
- Establishment of Maoist China, 1949
- The assassination of John F Kennedy, 1963
- Fall of the Berlin Wall 1989.
- 9/11 September attacks
- Covid-19 Pandemic, March 2020
With Covid we saw great change, and utter destruction, and this alone forced many to re-evaluate their lives, and with the current challenges and pains we face and have faced in the last few years, we have been tested to say the least, however there are now some of the greatest openings for innovation, invention and ideas and many are being birthed, which has meant that some people will take to planning an alternate route through inventing new roles.
We are seeing beyond the roles and jobs we were once in.
Whilst we know that the small business owner has suffered significantly, and always will find it tough to stay in business, in some ways there is a greater fight for what is right and has meaning. Where larger companies and organizations were and still are somewhat protected, (think multinational, corporations etc.) it has simultaneously increased the average person’s sense of care towards fighting for what is real and just, and what we are seeing is that we love to nurture and save what has TRUE meaning to us.
More and more now people feel it it is most important to run and support the local businesses around them.
Now let’s get to the 11 solid reasons I found to be the most important to supporting local:
- Small, local and independent businesses can create jobs for other locals who need employment this is of course very important for the local economy both in towns and cities, but generally for the national economy also.
- People in general want to connect with others. So this builds relationships and increases community bonds.
- We all want to feel a sense of trust in what we buy, and we can visit our local business to build this
- We want to buy from sellers we like and sellers want us to come back so everyone wins
- With fun ideas anyone can consider starting something with the right capital
- Even though the pandemic was entirely depressing it has forced minds to change and shift for the better
- The monetary value the UK receives a great deal from the SME sector and benefits economically.
- Not only do small businesses improve communities, it can also drive innovation and technology to support business
- A Small business such as an eatery can provide spaces for other workers to network and socialize
- By buying locally you don’t have to drive anywhere, so it helps the footprint
- Being ethical and sustainable is the future, and a personally ran enterprise means less import from unethical places
Doesn’t it make sense then to support your local business?
Generally speaking, everyone can win when moving in this direction, and who doesn’t want more trust and transparency in the world. Well we know a few rotten types don’t we, but we don’t support them.
Whilst I am excited to see so many new places popping up in Bristol, I also like to visit nearby places such as Bath, Wells and Chew Valley, which are a stones throw away from Bristol. It’s nice to see energetic and dynamic families and friends running passion driven businesses on my travels around the south west.
Seeing these passionate types reminds me of the story my mother told me of my grandfather Lorenzo who originally came from Northern Italy to live in the Bristol in the 1950’s. Lorenzo would cycle around Bristol on his Knife carrying adapted bicycle sharpening knives for all who needed the service.
Apparently Lorenzo made a great living as he had the monopoly in the area, and he was always asking a variety of folks if they needed their knives sharpened, so that he could secure his services.
An area Lorenzo didn’t frequent though would have been the countryside, as he had no need to go outside of Bristol. But, as I drive, I found a great Fish and Chip café just outside of Bristol which is called Salt and malt. A lovely family run establishment which has delicious locally sourced food and drink.
Support The Small Independent Local Business
I can recommend you try this place, and whilst you are at it, you can enjoy a walk around Chew Valley Lake afterwards to help the food go down.
You may also find some lovely little pubs serving great local produce in the countryside.
So, whether you are a local or not, get out there and see what you think.
And if you are ever in the Bristol region for a holiday or just for a day trip, be sure to explore Southville, Gloucester road, and the city center.
As well as exploring Bristol which I am doing pretty much every day, I also love to have mini road trips and I was recently in the charming and historic city of Bath where I tried some tasty homemade cakes at this lovely place called The Matter Hatter’s Tea Party.
Always a person to embrace a cup of tea, I stopped by and was really impressed by what was on offer.
But it’s not just about delicious food and drink of course, there are many kinds of small businesses, that need our support.
Businesses can come in many forms, types, shapes and sizes, and I of course love to recommend great service just as much as I do great products.
And when I talk of great service, I look for the best.
As I drive my little hybrid car around visiting businesses, I am proud to support those hard working types that have worked many years to establish themselves.
I came across a really small shop and garage in the village of Winterbourne, where you will find a friendly, caring and passionate mechanic and his trade.
In fact – I got chatting with the owner and felt it was only right to share his operation here, as he works so many hours and still smiles even though he has a job so he can keep this business running. What really struck me was that he decided he didn’t want the local business to go out of business from the previous owners, so he risked it all and bought it. What a guy!
And here we have it, A1 The Motorwell.
Be sure to swing by for all your motoring needs.
I will be sharing more businesses in my next post also, so if you are in Bristol or nearby and wish to be featured here, it’s entirely free. So I will come and take a look at your business and see if it fits and could appear here.
Of course, I cannot share every business I visit as there are hundreds around, but I will share links to your website or social media connections at the bottom of a post.
As I said before, I do love a good story behind a business, and I love a passionate person who has that devotion, dedication, commitment and drive to deliver the very best, no matter what type of business that may be.
Get in touch
Whether you are a budding entrepreneur, an established business or a new addition on the block, I am interested in learning more about you and your brand and message, and doing what I can to support you.
As we all know, the high-street itself is changing now, and there may be more room for you and others in that space to express yourself, so do be sure to look out for the right spot, if that’s what you want to do, as there are probably customers waiting for just what you have to offer.
And don’t forget to start a business plan so you know where you are headed, as you can use this as a roadmap to adjust, tweak and improve your efforts to survive, and to stand out from the crowd.
If you are not in Bristol itself, but maybe in a village in the South west, then look around you at what may be currently missing, or consider what you would love to see in your village. Many towns and villages around the U.K. have small hubs and markets on certain days, and others have local shops and stores to cater for local needs, and it might be that you can be the prime solution at one of these places.
The beauty of a small tight community and shared area of progress is that we can all help each other to grow, and through personal recommendations we gain traction. So I believe the best way to create repeat custom, retention and referrals, is to know your craft and be the very best you can be, not to mention receive those great reviews.
The future of local is in the hands of those talking and sharing, and lifting each other up.
Support The Small Independent Local Business and build trust
We are in a time where we need more connection, more trust, and more transparency, and we need more care and attention and more personal pride in what we do, and by buying from those around us, we show that we are in favor of supporting our community and the spirit which it brings.
It is about that connection to something real.
As we are in an increasingly detached, modern and tech based world where so much is virtual, we want to bring back some of that human connection into our areas, because it drives a more slower pace of life and a natural way of being that increases security and peace amongst locals.
Now, I am big fan of a good pie, are you?
I love the heartwarming sensation of a good pie, mash and gravy, and I am impressed by the ingredients and choices used there.
And I always buy my pies from Pie Minister, a Bristol based business that are well established. There is also a new book out with amazing pie recipes inside.
If you want the book just click on the ‘book image’ to buy it! Highly recommended.
The future belongs to us!
I sincerely believe that today we don’t want a predominantly online purchase driven world.
And as we lose personal connections this way we become more detached, so whilst it is VERY easy to press a button and buy, and I do sometimes myself, isn’t it more satisfying to go and buy something from a person?
We can look at it, try it and buy it from someone we like.
For example, buying records from a local seller is a great buzz I find, and being an avid music collector I am in love with checking records in the flesh before I buy them. That’s just me and that’s my passion, but I am simply conveying the fact that human beings need each-other more than we think.
So the next time you consider buying lunch or a product or service then do consider where you might support someone, before you press a button for convenience.
A slice of Naples in the heart of Bristol
Now, being half Italian I couldn’t leave you with no Italian business right? Enter Taste of Napoli, right in the center of Bristol.
Reasons to Support The Small Independent Local Business
My dear friend Carmine runs this lovely Café with his family, and he offers authentic Neapolitan Pizza, and desserts, drinks and most of all ‘love’. All of his products are made with finest ingredients, and of course with love and care, and it is hands down the best pizza I have eaten in Bristol.
Carmine brings great value and great produce to the city that is well worth trying.
In fact – my brother from another mother who lives in California comes to visit me here, and he always wants to go to Taste of Napoli for a Mocha, as it is his must have drink when in Bristol. And I understand why, as it is second to none.
Another wonderful business that is new on the block is called COR.
This is in Bedminster, and I just popped over the other night to try it out. The reviews were correct and I was blown away. Supremely tasty Mediterranean inspired foods and wines, and a personal and intimate atmosphere makes it a new favorite of mine.
With full bellies we trotted off to a place called ‘Spirited’ which is a spirit tasting establishment just down the road from COR.
We decided to try out a few different things as you do, and found it to be a nice relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of whisky, Rum and Tequila to choose from.
You have gotta be a little careful there of course, as it is mighty tempting to try it all!
But this business like COR is locally owned and operated, and so it was a great joy to experience those with that passion for what they do. The beauty of supporting these operations also means that it is a real experience and it builds relationships and can improve feed back. So the local real business ensures they can offer what the local wants through that communication and feedback.
HERE ARE 15 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD CHOOSE LOCAL WRITTEN BY BEN LOBEL @ SMALL BUSINESS
Moving on now to something a little different; do you like spicy food?
It might be that you associate this area of cuisine with perhaps Asian flavors typically, however don’t forget the Caribbean cuisine. So I went and tried Caribbean Croft in Stokes Croft in Bristol, and I was in taste heaven with the flavors I discovered here. Also locally owned, this place offer over 100 Rums, and the meat there is simply divine.
I decided to try a little of everything, and washed it down a creamy Guinness punch and a Rum cocktail for my last treat.
This place has a warmth and inviting feel, lovely staff, and just a vast array of choice.
Just be careful though because it can be very hot and spicy!
Now, as a person who loves most things Spanish it was only right for me to share my friends delicatessen also on Gloucester road. He puts his heart and soul into everything he does, and the produce is as good as you will find outside of Spain. I can say I humbly know as I have been to most cities in Spain. There are meats, cheeses, olives, wines and much more in this small perfectly formed establishment.
And in Gloucester road there are (I’ve been told) the most independent shops in Europe, and that’s where this little gem resides.
Having been there now for over 10 years El Colmado is a well established business, and its always a true pleasure to see something so wonderful that is thriving.
So of course, I am a frequent customer as I can walk there in 15 minutes from my home.
Now, I will be sharing more local businesses that I not only buy from but support and share, very soon, but for now you can enjoy the ones I shared here and visit these if you feel they resonate with you.
Also, if you have any suggestions with regards to sharing businesses you love, let me know and I will be sure to include the links to other Small local businesses in this post or the next.
Whilst this post is showing mostly food and drink operations in Bristol (as I am a food lover), I am more than happy to share a great variety of operations that help to support the community, so do let me know if you want me to pass by and check your lovely operation out in person.
In your Town or City
Even though I live in the vibrant colorful city of Bristol, and even though I was born and bred here, it doesn’t mean that this is somehow unusual or different to where you may live, in that every area has some kind of opportunity to start thinking more in this way. And every area has local produce and services in some way, which can become embraced by the community.
No matter what the size of your village, town or city, you can do something that helps out – and it makes sense to do so.
Across the U.K. we are now seeing an increased movement towards a more caring and local identity for gathering resources that we have around us, and in using skilled craftspeople to express their unique abilities alongside this we are seeing a greater appreciation, so thus increasing local awareness of what ‘all can do’ to improve this.
We should celebrate 1) where we live and 2) what we have around us, as we have such unique, rich and varied resources.
On top of that, we may then have less of a need for buying from unethical businesses in the future that are not remotely interested in progress, nor where you live.
Thanks for taking a look and I look forward to trying your products or services very soon!
And remember, customer or seller I want to know what you do and what you appreciate where you live.
Links to check out other small businesses I recommend – and some links to read:
THE DIRTY BIRD COCKTAIL LOUNGE CLIFTON BRISTOL
DADDYS ALTERATIONS AND CLOTHING REPAIRS
JOKOTO TAILORS AND ALTERATIONS BRISTOL
ROCKSALT INDIAN AND CHINESE CUISINE AND BAR
BEYOND RETRO VINTAGE STORE BRISTOL
THE SPAGHETTI INCIDENT GLOUCESTER ROAD BRISTOL
BRISTOL LOCKSMITHS KEY AND LOCK EXPERTS
BLUE FLAME SERVICES GAS AND BOILERS
CRAFTY EGG GLOUCESTER ROAD BRISTOL
10 BEST COFFEE SHOPS AND CAFES IN BRISTOL 2024
WILSONS RESTAURANT REDLAND BRISTOL
8 BEST VINTAGE SHOPS IN BRISTOL
12 INDEPENDENT BRISTOL RESTAURANTS YOU NEED TO TRY BRISTOL POST
18 Bristol restaurants make the prestigious Michelin Guide includes 2 new additions | BristolWorld
Benefits of supporting local businesses – By Love Cambridge
46 Amazing Reasons to support small and local – Sustainably Kind Living
Why Support The Local Small Business? Share on X
All The Best
Greg
P.s I know I have a big gob! But those salted caramel toasted marsh mallows at Stourhead just before Christmas were out of this world. Remember to Support The Small Independent Local Business!
Christmas at Stourhead an annual event where this
world-famous Wiltshire estate is lit up with festive illuminations
Support The Small Independent Local Business
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