Shop local in Denver this holiday season. The idea of shopping local is a growing trend thanks to neighborhood campaigns along with national Shop Local campaigns like the one being run by American Express right now. How important is it to your neighborhood to shop local, especially during the holidays? A 2008 study by Civic Economics revealed that of every $100 spent at alocally owned, independent merchant, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. This number drops to $43 per $100 for purchases at retail franchises and is nearly half that for online expenditures with very little if any returning to your local community.
The numbers for Black Friday are out and it looks like spending was up 6% over last year, which is a very encouraging sign. However, one third of all sales were via the Internet. Just imagine how much positive impact theseonlinesales would translate to if they had been made at local merchants instead of online.
Many people are taking pledges this year to purchase a certain percentage of their holiday gifts from local merchants. Most neighborhood shoppingareas will be running promotions to get their neighbors in the doors and I will make sure to highlight theseso you don't miss out. If you are looking for more incentive to check out your local shops, then consider what American Express is offering.
This past Saturday, American Express launched its Shop Local Saturday campaign nationwide. To support small business this holiday season, AmericanExpress will give $25 back to Cardmembers who register & use their card at a small business ANY day through 12/31. Register now! All small businesses that accept Amex are automatically enrolled. To find out more information on this program, visit their Facebook page here.
Try to make a point to shop local this Holiday season, and whenever you can for that matter. It is small business that is going to get this economy back on track and while it maybe easier to shop online, make a point to get out into your community and visit your local merchants. Everyone states they want a true community feel where they live and shopping local is how that starts.
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