‘Local First’ Movements: Why Colorado Springs, CO Customers Love Supporting Hometown Brands

Local-first movements have been on the rise in cities across the United States, and Colorado Springs is no exception. Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, this city boasts around 480,000 residents and a strong sense of community pride. At Emulent, we’ve seen businesses flourish here, particularly when they align with the “buy local” mindset. Why is this movement so powerful in Colorado Springs, and how can your brand tap into it?

A Community Rooted in Nature and Adventure

Colorado Springs is famous for its outdoor attractions, from the Garden of the Gods to Pikes Peak. Locals spend weekends hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. This natural wonder translates into a community that values sustainability, health, and authenticity.

What Does This Mean for Local-First?

• Appreciation for Authenticity: People who feel connected to the land often feel equally connected to the local businesses that share their values.
• Environmentally Conscious Buying: Eco-friendly packaging, locally sourced materials, and conservation efforts resonate strongly with consumers here.

Emulent’s Tip: If you want to align with local-first enthusiasts, consider highlighting your green initiatives or local sourcing. Mention your Colorado-based suppliers, show pictures of staff volunteering at local parks, or sponsor environmental clean-ups. This genuine involvement resonates with the city’s outdoor-minded spirit.

Transplants Seeking a Sense of Community

Many Colorado Springs residents are transplants from other states, drawn by job opportunities at the Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, tech companies, or simply the allure of mountain living. These newcomers often seek to root themselves in the local culture.

How Local Businesses Benefit

1. Fostering Connections: By offering local events, volunteer days, or social gatherings, businesses can help newcomers integrate while showcasing their unique brand identity.
2. Local Networking: Partner with real estate companies or welcome wagon-style groups that introduce new residents to local businesses, possibly via discount booklets or local-themed gift baskets.

Emulent’s Tip: Position your brand as a “community concierge.” If you run a coffee shop, consider hosting monthly meetups for new residents to mingle and discover more about Colorado Springs. You’ll establish yourself as a local staple and build emotional loyalty.

Active Military Population and Veteran Culture

With large military installations in and around Colorado Springs—such as Peterson Space Force Base, Fort Carson, and the Air Force Academy—the city has a strong military presence. This community often embraces local-first shopping as a way to support the region that supports them.

Strategies to Engage

1. Military Discounts and Recognition: Offering special deals or acknowledging service members (e.g., a “Veterans Eat Free” day) can go a long way toward building brand goodwill.
2. Collaborate on Base Events: Many bases host community fairs or family days, offering a chance for local businesses to showcase their products or services.
3. Tell Authentic Stories: If a part of your team or founder is a military veteran, highlight this background. It fosters immediate trust and camaraderie.

Emulent’s Tip: Be authentic. Don’t lean on military marketing if there’s no real connection—consumers can spot insincerity. Instead, look for genuine ways to provide value and support to the service community.

Emphasis on Health, Wellness, and Local Products

Colorado Springs consistently ranks as one of the healthiest cities in the U.S., thanks in part to abundant outdoor activities and a collective wellness mindset. This cultural focus often intersects with a preference for local products, such as fresh produce, natural skincare, and wellness-focused services.

Catering to Wellness-Focused Shoppers

1. Local Farmers’ Markets and Fairs: Colorado Springs hosts multiple markets. Participating can directly connect you with consumers who value fresh, organic, and locally sourced items.
2. Health-Centric Community Events: From yoga in the park to running clubs, the city is brimming with opportunities to sponsor or host.
3. Holistic Brand Messaging: Whether you sell handcrafted soaps or organic coffee, emphasize how your product or service supports a healthy lifestyle in Colorado Springs.

Stat to Note:

• According to local health surveys, about 80% of Colorado Springs residents engage in outdoor recreation at least once per week, reflecting an active consumer base.

Emulent’s Tip: If wellness is part of your brand identity, align your advertising language with the local passion for health and the outdoors. Think: “Fuel your next hike with our all-natural protein bars—crafted right here in Colorado Springs.”

Rapid Economic Growth and Pride in Local Innovation

Colorado Springs is growing quickly, with tech companies, startups, and innovative small businesses taking root. This growth fuels a citywide pride in local entrepreneurship. Many residents make a conscious effort to support homegrown companies because they recognize the role these businesses play in Colorado Springs’ evolving identity.

Capitalizing on Local Pride

1. Highlight Your Roots: If your company was founded by Colorado Springs residents or has deep local ties, weave that story into your marketing.
2. Local Collaborations: Team up with complementary businesses in town for cross-promotions. For example, a local brewery might collaborate with a nearby pizzeria to create a unique beer-and-pizza night.
3. Participate in Economic Initiatives: Chamber of Commerce events, local business expos, or entrepreneurial meetups can introduce you to potential customers and partners alike.

Emulent’s Tip: Showcase any local awards, recognitions, or “Best of the Springs” accolades. Residents pay attention to these lists and often view them as endorsements of quality, community connection, and overall local credibility.

Key Takeaways for Embracing the Local-First Movement

Colorado Springs customers aren’t just paying lip service to shopping local; they’re actively seeking out businesses that champion their hometown’s culture and values.

At Emulent, we believe that harnessing the power of local-first movements is one of the most effective ways to stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace—especially in a city as tight-knit and rapidly evolving as Colorado Springs. When you align authentically with community values, the city’s residents will reward you with loyalty and advocacy. After all, in Colorado Springs, supporting hometown brands isn’t just a trend; it’s a shared ethos that makes the city stronger, more innovative, and uniquely vibrant.