Georgians Are Willing to Pay More for Local Goods

A recent survey conducted by HostingAdvice reveals that Georgians are willing to pay a 23% premium for products labeled “Made in Georgia,” reflecting a strong preference for supporting local businesses. This finding comes from a broader study of 3,000 consumers, highlighting regional variations in the willingness to spend extra on locally sourced goods.

Survey Insights

The survey, which focused on the preferences of American consumers regarding domestically produced products, found that nearly 70% of respondents preferred American-made goods. Of these, over 83% were willing to pay up to 20% more for items made in the USA. When narrowing the focus to state-specific products, Georgians demonstrated a significant willingness to invest in their local economy, paying a notable premium for goods produced within the state.

National Comparison

While Georgians are willing to pay a 23% premium, this figure is modest compared to Hawaii, where residents are prepared to spend up to 35% more on locally produced items. This heightened willingness in Hawaii is likely influenced by the high cost of importing goods to the islands. Conversely, New Yorkers showed the least inclination to pay extra for local products, with an average premium of only 8%.

Consumer Behavior

The survey also examined consumer habits regarding locally made products:

• 32% of online shoppers specifically look for locally made products.
• 40% occasionally seek out local goods.
• 28% do not consider the product’s origin, opting instead for the best available option.

Additionally, American consumers exhibit strong loyalty to domestically made products, with 90% trusting the quality of American goods over imported ones and 72% willing to choose a more expensive American product over a similar international one.

Preferred Local Products

Consumers are most inclined to pay a premium for the following locally made items:

1. Health and beauty products
2. Clothing and apparel
3. Cars and car parts
4. Electronics
5. Home appliances
6. Furniture and home decor
7. Food and beverages (e.g., specialty foods, craft beer)
8. Sporting goods and outdoor equipment
9. Children’s products (e.g., toys, clothing)
10. Jewelry and accessories
11. Construction materials (e.g., flooring, tools)

Marketing Strategies and Local Support

The survey also shed light on the practices of producers of locally made products, especially those selling online. It was found that:

• 81% of online marketers tailor their strategies based on the region they are targeting.
• 70% have observed a significant shift toward products marketed as made in their state over recent years.

Moreover, many online businesses engage in local philanthropy, with 85% reporting that supporting local causes has benefited their business.

Expert Commentary

Christina Lewis of HostingAdvice.com noted, “Our findings highlight a growing trend among American consumers who not only value the ‘Made in the USA’ label but also strongly prefer products made within their own states. Local loyalty is driving significant premiums, with consumers recognizing the quality and supporting their local economies.”