By WECT Staff | November 4, 2020 at 9:00 AM EST – Updated November 4 at 9:00 AM
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – COVID-19 has hit small businesses hard which is why several Pender County orgnizations are launching a shop local campaign called ‘It Matters Where You Shop.’
The campaign is being hosted by Burgaw Chamber of Commerce, Burgaw Tourism, the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce, and Pender County Tourism in an effort to bring awareness to supporting local business.
“A majority of our small businesses are locally owned and operated,” said Allicyn Bryan, Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce chairperson. “When we shop in Pender County, we are supporting our neighbors’ businesses.”
Shopping local not only helps businesses through revenue, but also helps residents through taxes.
“When we don’t shop in our county, we hurt ourselves because we lose sales tax revenue,” said Mark Seitz, Pender County Cooperative Extension Director. Seitz has conducted an extensive study on the pull of money that leaves Pender County and collected by surrounding counties. “We lose substantial revenue that could be used in Pender County.”
Local businesses participating in the campaign will host open houses as well as offer specials from now until the end of the year.
“Due to COVID-19, our businesses need our spending dollars now more than ever,” said Tammy Proctor, Pender County Tourism director. “Our businesses weathered Hurricane Florence, only to be struck by COVID restrictions. This year, more than ever, it is important to support our own businesses.”
“The ‘It Matters Where You Shop’ campaign is the perfect time to explore the beautiful shops in our Pender County communities,” Jennifer Hansen, Burgaw Tourism chairperson said. “Not only do our businesses offer beautiful unique gifts and decorating ideas, they offer gift cards and gift certificates for friends and every member of your family.”
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