American Express has created a national campaign promoting the message, “Shop Small.” Locally, at the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, we have created a new program for our members (80 percent of them are small businesses) that differs because it’s a call-to-action: “Get Out On… Small Business Saturday!” The two campaigns share some features, allowing businesses to blend the two messages. The GVCC feels it’s very important to ask the community to directly engage. We want our service businesses to be booked, our dining members to be utilized and our entertainment and shopping members to be visited – all on Saturday, November 30.
Our campaign is sponsored by Columbia Credit Union, who will be on-the-ground on Small Business Saturday at two locations. They will be at Latte Da Coffee House and Wine Bar from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. passing out $5 food/drink vouchers (as supplies last) to the community, so they can sample Latte Da’s new breakfast menu and seasonal drinks. Then, they will travel to the historic Kiggins Theatre to host a free holiday movie matinee for the community, passing out goodies to all that attend. The goal: to fill the theatre with local families, all courtesy of Columbia Credit Union’s “Making Life Better” moments.
There are more than 40 businesses enrolled in our inaugural “Get Out On… Small Business Saturday” campaign in the following four categories: Retail, food & entertainment, wellness, and professional services. Most are offering special promotions that have to be utilized on Saturday, November 30. The chamber’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/yourchamber) is posting regularly about participating members, and featuring mock day-of routes to touch as many businesses as possible. Find all members and their promotions at www.vancouverusa.com.
Shop local campaigns are a core mission of chambers of commerce. We promote our businesses and as they grow, our community grows. When you shop locally, you support local jobs and local businesses. A portion of every dollar you spend stays in Clark County to help pay for critical services like police, fire and roads. When you shop locally, you are investing in our community.
During the holidays you’ll find great variety, sales and the warm glow of the season right here at home.
Kelly Parker is the president & CEO of the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce; Chandra Chase is the organization’s communications director.
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