Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Shop Local First! Campaign

The Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (FLACC) recently launched its new Shop Local First! Campaign, aimed at fostering the continued success of area retail and service providers.

The chamber intends to raise awareness of the community advantages of patronizing local businesses, and will use advertising, promotions and a Shop Local logo to help deliver the message.

In indicating the need for such an effort, Colleen Eddy, FLACC President, points to numerous studies that indicate “the significant positive impact residents have on the local economy when they “shop local”.  Many people just don’t realize how they affect local businesses when they shop elsewhere.”

Thriving local businesses donate to many community organizations, provide employment for locals and often use other local businesses to provide for their own purchasing needs. A recent study has shown that $68 out of every $100 spent at a locally owned business stays within the community.

Shop Local First! committee members will be contacting retail chamber members over the next few weeks to encourage their participation in the campaign, which is planned to include decals, print and web advertising, posters, contests and more. The only requirement to participate in the campaign is to be a chamber member.

“The chamber will also be implementing a Dine Local! campaign to raise awareness of area restaurants and to encourage residents to ‘think local’ for both their shopping and dining needs.

Don’t want to wait for a call to join in?

Contact one of the committee members:

Daree Selby, Chair
Gavia, Inc.
763-434-0848

Cory Roberts
Forest Lake Floral
651-755-6401

Alyce Taylor
Green Door Consignment Co
651-464-7630

Top 6 Reasons to Shop Local First!

1.    Significantly more money re-circulates in the community.
2.    Local charities and non-profits receive more support from local businesses.
3.    Local businesses invest in the community—they are usually owned by local residents who have a vested interest in the community’s future.
4.    Local businesses offer more jobs—small businesses employ the largest number of people in the country.
5.    Competition and diversity leads to more consumer choice—a market place of many small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long term.
6.    It’s YOUR community—YOU keep it healthy and vibrant!

Did you know?

Just 7 FL retail businesses pay a combined total of $460,000 a year in property taxes.