Shop local programs sometimes draw fire. Franchise owners and box stores feel left out when a chamber or downtown association launches an aggressive shop local campaign. But they don’t have to be. You can include them in your shop local efforts through instituting a local currency or gift certificate program.
A Local Gift Certificate Program Benefits Everyone
Franchise Owners
Franchise owners are betwixt and between in traditional shop local campaigns. The business owner is local in a franchise business but since they belong to a larger parent company, they are often viewed as a chain and left out of local programs. However, if they choose to accept it, a local currency program can bring them back into the community of local shop owners for all to see.
A local gift certificates program will list them as a member and those shopping local will see them in a different light.
Box Stores
Box stores are a great asset to communities. They employ a lot of people and pay their taxes. Yet, they’re left out of the shop local movement because they’re owned by out-of-towners and money spent at those stores is not spent in the community at as high a rate as that spent at small local businesses. Still, they are a valued part of the economic framework of the community so you don’t want to leave them out.
Box stores have deep pockets and often reward employees for service and bonuses through gift cards. Speak with their local HR department and find out if they would be willing to purchase local gift certificates instead of those from large companies located elsewhere. Make sure they know how flexible local gift cards are in allowing recipients to choose from a number of local merchants.
When they agree to use your gift certificates for employee incentives, give them the appropriate PR for doing so. This makes them feel good to be a part of helping the local community and others notice.
Local gift certificates are good for everyone in the community. Whether it’s small businesses, franchise owners, or big box stores, giving the gift of local benefits everyone.
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