The Enterprise Department spent just over £41,000 supporting the last three buy local campaigns.
Tim Johnston, the Enterprise Minister, was asked in a written Tynwald question when was the last buy local campaign, when it ran, and how much was spent on it.
But he says there was no single, specific campaign, with defined dates.
“Rather, the department, through Business Isle of Man, has delivered a series of connected initiatives encouraging residents to support local producers, retailers, hospitality businesses and leisure providers.”
The three most recent initiatives were Love Manx Christmas, the Isle of Man Food and Drink Christmas campaign, and Manx Menu March.
“Together, these involved total expenditure of £41,496.85.”
Significant reach
He adds: “Overall, the initiatives achieved significant reach, promoted local businesses and producers, and were generally well received. The findings are being used to inform future activity.”
The Great Manx Feast, on September 19 and 20, will showcase Manx produce and Further promotion of Manx food and producers is continuing ahead of the Great Manx Feast on 19 and 20 September 2026, which will showcase Manx produce and island businesses.
But Johnston continues: “Ultimately, however, supporting the local economy is not solely the responsibility of government or any individual campaign.
“It depends upon the everyday choices made by all of us. Every resident can play their part by choosing to buy local whenever they reasonably can.”
Although all MHKs have now ended their term of office, ahead of the election, Mr Johnston remains a minister. He was responding to a question tabled – before the dissolution of the House of Keys – by Jason Moorhouse.