It’s the season of giving! So if you’re looking for the gift that keeps on giving this holiday season, we have just the thing! I guarantee you’ve probably heard this a hundred times, but it can’t be overstated. The best gift you can give is the gift of shopping locally. Here’s why shopping in our hometown is one of the best things you can do.
Your purchases at local establishments support local families running the businesses and the employees working at them. Families will use that money to frequent other Atascadero shops and restaurants that, in turn, support their own families. It creates a beautiful cycle of giving during the holiday season.
In late September, the Chamber and its volunteers visited nearly 500 businesses during a Business Walk. Many retail establishments stated that this past summer was an especially slow season for them. This is likely due to residents and tourists feeling the effects of inflation, gas prices, and economic uncertainty. This tells me that our hometown businesses need us more than ever this holiday season.
Shopping local is a choice, an intentional one, especially in the age of two-day shipping from national, online retailers. Supporting the community where we all live, work, and play is one of the best you can give. If you’re looking for amazing shops near you to find one-of-a-kind gifts, I encourage you to visit our online Business Directory at atascaderochamber.org/business-directory
-Josh Cross, Atascadero Chamber CEO
President & CEO of the Atascadero Chamber | Josh Cross
