It matters. Shop local

This week, Burgaw Chamber of Commerce, Burgaw Tourism, the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce, and Pender County Tourism is launching a new campaign, ‘It Matters Where You Shop’ to raise awareness of the importance of sustaining our local businesses.

“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.”

“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.”

“We urge our residents to explore the beautiful shops and boutiques throughout our county,” said Arwyn Smith, Burgaw Area Chamber of Commerce Director. “Our businesses have much to offer, especially during this upcoming holiday season.”

The “It Matters Where You Shop” campaign gives residents the power to support local businesses. These are the businesses our non-profit organizations – from scouts to youth sports – rely upon for donations and sponsors. Now is the time to give back to our businesses.

“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,” said Jennifer Hansen, Burgaw Tourism chairperson. “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.”

From now through the first of the year, local retailers will offer specials and open house events. Be sure to follow the websites of our participating chambers and tourism offices. For shopping updates visit our Facebook page @ShopPender. Follow #ShopPender, #ShopBurgaw, and #ShopTopsail on social media too.