Tips and Tricks for Shopping Local This Holiday Season This year alone, the National Retail Federation estimates that Americans will spend $730.7 billion on holiday shopping—an increase of up to 4.2% from 2018. It’s the biggest holiday shopping season of the year, and although plenty of big-box retailers offer deep discounts in stores and online in the weeKs and months before the winter holidays, it’s the dollars spent at local businesses that will have the greatest impact on you and your community. That’s because when you spend your money at a locally owned business, more of those dollars stay within the local economy. Plus, since small businesses donate an average of 250 percent more to community causes than larger businesses, according to the Seattle Good Business Network, buying local is truly the gift that keeps on giving. As your credit union, we believe in supporting you – our members – as well as the community we call home. Before setting out for your next shopping excursion, consider these tips for shopping local this holiday season. Support Main Street Credit unions support Main Street, not Wall Street. When you bank with a credit union, you’re living that philosophy. So why not go even further with it? Load the family into the car and spend a Saturday downtown, exploring and supporting our local businesses. You’ll be glad you did – plus you’ll cut down on shipping fees! Shop at Local Arts and Crafts Festivals The holiday season is a popular time for local arts and crafts festivals, where community artists and business owners gather to showcase handmade gifts and goodies you won’t find anywhere else. Make sure to include artists’ business cards with your gifts so that our local retailers can enjoy repeat business! Gift Tickets to Local Events For your loved ones that have everything, consider purchasing ticKets to local events instead. Look for upcoming dates at local music halls, arts centers, and theater venues – and don’t forget to check online to see if those locations offer holiday discounts. It’s another great way to support Main Street! Save Holiday Shopping for Small Business Saturday If a BlacK Friday shopping trip sounds liKe a retail nightmare, consider waiting an extra day and planning a “Small Business Saturday” outing instead. Locally owned businesses often have their very own discounts throughout Thanksgiving weeKend and beyond. Search social media for hashtags liKe #shopsmall and #shoplocal to find out about local stores and sales near you. Ask Your Local Retailers Since smaller businesses don’t have big marketing budgets liKe big-box retailers do, many local business owners will team up with other local shops to drive more foot traffic into their stores. At the register, maKe sure to asK about other small businesses in the area. They’ll probably Know of a few locations within walKing distance and may even have some tips on where to find the best deals. Give the Gift of Local Cash Some gifts don’t need wrapping paper to be the perfect holiday surprise. Give the gift of a bright financial future by opening a savings account at our credit union. We’re member-based not-for-profit cooperative, so the money you contribute will also positively impact others in your community. Stop by a branch to learn more about giving the gift of credit union membership. .