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Press Article: Enhancing Local Shopping in Vermont This Holiday Season
As the holiday season unfolds in Vermont, calls to shop local and support community businesses resonate louder than ever. Yet, local retailers continue to express concerns about disappointing sales figures, highlighting a disconnect between community support and consumer behavior.
Despite an abundance of messaging around the benefits of purchasing locally—such as promoting Vermont-made products—many residents opt for online shopping, with giants like Amazon overshadowing neighborhood businesses. Local shops often struggle with high prices, limited gift selections, and a lack of engaging downtown events. Many towns only host minimal holiday activities, like tree lightings, leaving retailers burdened with the responsibility to attract shoppers without adequate community support.
In response to these challenges, local leaders are encouraged to enhance the shopping experience by introducing more festive decorations and activities that extend beyond initial holiday events. Suggestions include creating weekly downtown experiences that invigorate the season and promoting workshops for retailers to improve their marketing and in-store experiences.
Moreover, a transformative idea has emerged: the introduction of "Green Mountain Points" (GMPs). This customer appreciation program would allow shoppers to earn points with purchases at local retailers, redeemable for merchandise—similar to online shopping rewards. Managed by the state’s lottery department, this initiative could incentivize local shopping and drive customer loyalty.
Encouragingly, if town leaders and state officials embrace these strategies, they may first alleviate holiday sales concerns and foster a more vibrant local economy. As Vermont navigates holiday shopping traditions, it is vital to rally community support around local businesses, ensuring their survival and success.
Louis Scotellaro, a resident of Chittenden, advocates for these changes to invigorate local retail and enhance community engagement.
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Photo credit www.rutlandherald.com
