Op is talking about micro currencies which operate in certain localities within a country besides the legal tender which is used all over the country. We don't have them in my country, but I have read a bit about them being used in communities in other countries.
A friend was bragging to me about the merits of her local currency, but I wonder what's the point since we have bitcoin?
Bitcoin is not a fiat currency and is not competing with them. People can have their local currencies within their communities and still use their general currency which is EUR in France.
This does not limit the utilities of Bitcoin.
Local currencies are not fiat currencies either.
Une monnaie locale ne peut être utilisée que sur un territoire restreint : ville, région, et ne concerne qu’un éventail réduit de biens et services. Elle est mise en place par une association qui en assure la gestion avec l'aide d'un établissement financier. On ne peut payer avec la monnaie locale que certaines marchandises.
A local currency can be used to pay for everyday purchases in the context of local trade, the sale of local products.
The local currency is generally used to develop the local economy by promoting local trade and production. For example, it is not possible to use local currency in a supermarket or hypermarket. The local currency can also be used to develop solidarity projects.
It is not possible to deposit local currency in a bank account.
=> A local currency can only be used in a restricted territory: city, region, and only concerns a limited range of goods and services. It is set up by an association which manages it with the help of a financial institution. You can only pay with the local currency for certain goods.
In my region I learn that there is one of these currencies for 10 years. I have never seen any business with the logo of this currency. In addition, you must join the association that issues them. Honestly, I don't understand what it's for.
https://www.economie.gouv.fr/particuliers/monnaie-locale#