Purchasing from local manufacturers keeps smaller businesses in competition with larger corporations while creating and maintaining jobs. Getting materials locally creates a relationship between the seller and buyer, allowing for further cooperation and growth.
If a material isn’t functioning properly or the buyer has needs that aren’t being met, a local business in close proximity to a building site could more easily address these needs. It would be more difficult for a large national or international corporation to provide tailored customer service. (info graphic from visual.ly)