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We Support Each Other When “W.E. Support Local”
Last issue in honour of “Small Business Week” in October, I wrote about the importance of shopping local every day of the year. Pandemic or no pandemic, when you spend money at a business in Essex County you are helping to stimulate the economy. Supporting local companies helps the owners pay their employees, the bills and put food on the table for their families.
Shortly after our October edition was published, the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce (WECC) launched the biggest “Support Local” campaign in its 145 year history. So, of course I must fill you in on the details here now!
The “Support Local” campaign runs until the end of January 2022. It is designed to give a boost to local businesses, retailers, restaurants and services as they continue to emerge from the economic impact of the global pandemic.
Campaign marketing and branding includes the Chamber’s existing #ShopYQG and #DineYQG programs, and also introduces #ShipYQG, encouraging people to purchase a gift from a local business to be sent to a colleague, friend or family member anywhere around the world.
It’s a great idea as trips to visit relatives out of town or in-person gatherings may be limited over the holidays, due to ongoing COVID concerns.
WECC President/CEO Rakesh Naidu comments: “‘Support Local’ is about putting our community first. It makes economic, environmental and social sense to patronize the businesses in our region who have a vested interest in Windsor Essex. Our community’s future prosperity depends on how we support our businesses today.”
Windsor Essex retailers, restaurants and service providers can promote the campaign in their store, office or restaurant using the Chamber’s “Support Local” marketing toolkit, found at WEsupportlocal.info.
Local businesses are also encouraged to share their upcoming promotions, good news stories or announcements so the Chamber can amplify their message through social media. As well, Chamber members can take advantage of discounted shipping rates through the Member Benefits program with UPS.
Local retailers can submit their information to the free Shopping Guide at: ShopYQG.com. Similarly, restaurants can provide details of their operation to the free guide on: DineYQG.ca. (Note: if your business previously submitted information, it can be updated on either website).
Residents are encouraged to rally behind our local retailers, restaurants and service providers. They can share their experiences and support online using #ShopYQG, #DineYQG, and #ShipYQG.
The “Holiday Gift Guide,” produced by Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island, also features “Support Local” initiatives on: YQGHolidays.ca. Other program partners to date include: the Leamington District Chamber of Commerce, Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, City of Windsor, St. Clair College, Better Business Bureau and Rafih Auto Group. (Be sure to watch for the Windsor-built “Support Local” Dodge Grand Caravan at community events).
Thanks to funding provided by FedDev Ontario, local BIAs and Shopping Districts can apply for money to enhance their programming throughout the holidays and into the new year.
The whole campaign is good timing as the border has since re-opened and many will flock to Michigan malls and stores to purchase goods for themselves and those on their holiday gift list. But, remember buying products or services you need from businesses in your hometown could mean you keep a local company in business for many years to come.
Happy local shopping everyone!