Shop local campaign launched by chambers

With spring just around the corner and the COVID restrictions expected to ease soon, Okanagan chambers of commerce are reminding people about the importance of shopping local.

Seven of the business associations, ranging from Armstrong-Spallumcheen in the north to Penticton in the south, have launched a business promotion aimed at consumers throughout the valley.

The chambers have partnered with community leaders on a multi-media campaign called Show Local Some Love.

“Every dollar you choose to spend locally is like casting a vote for your community to succeed,” said Dan Proulx, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce general manager. “When you shop local, you are making an investment to enhance where you live. Local businesses create employment, add vitality to the community, support our non-profits and sports teams, and provide government with funds for essential infrastructure.”

Campaign organizers said while consumers can make purchases across borders with a click of a button, that doesn’t help local small businesses which are major economic generators.

“When you shop local, 60 cents of every dollar you spend stays and circulates in the local economy compared to just 14 cents when you purchase something online that comes from the other side of the planet,” the chambers stated in a news release

The campaign also puts a spotlight on some of the unique business and services the Okanagan has.

“This program is an opportunity for chambers of commerce throughout the Okanagan Valley to show the combined reach we have in encouraging residents to shop local first,” said Patti Noonan, executive director of the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce.

The business associations taking part in the effort include Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber, Greater Vernon Chamber, Kelowna Chamber, Greater Westside Board of Trade, Peachland Chamber, Penticton and Wine Country Chamber and the South Okanagan Chamber.