Concord Gift Card Program Launched By City, Chamber

CONCORD, CA — The City of Concord and the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce announced the creation of the Shop Concord program to support the city’s small businesses by encouraging residents to shop locally this holiday season.

Scheduled to launch for consumers at 8 a.m. Wednesday, the Shop Concord program will help increase sales for local businesses who have experienced significant setbacks because of the coronavirus pandemic while also benefiting consumers and providing a much-needed boost to the local economy.

Shop Concord will launch with a $10,000 contribution from the City of Concord to supply a bonus gift card with every purchase, while supplies last. Customers who purchase a $50 gift card through Shop Concord receive a free $25 gift card in return, which can be used for purchases at any participating business. Customers also have the option to purchase a $20 gift card through Shop Concord and receive a free $10 gift card in return. Flying Colors Comics, Liberty Gymnastics and Purple Kow Boba are just a few of the participating businesses consumers will have to choose from.

“Challenges present an opportunity for growth, and the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with the City of Concord on this brand new Shop Concord program,” said Kevin Cabral, President/CEO of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce. “The program is an ideal way for businesses to gear up for the holidays and gain exposure to new customers.”

Once the gift card program is launched on Nov. 25, gift cards can be purchased at Concordfirst.com/shop-concord-card/, which includes a list of participating merchants. The gift cards can be redeemed at any participating Concord business. Customers can split the gift card and bonus portions to keep for themselves or gift to others via text or email.

The bonus gift cards with purchase will run until the allotted $10,000 is distributed. The Concord City Council allocated the funds for this program from the city’s general fund in an effort to encourage local spending.

“The Shop Concord program will make this year’s holiday gift giving more impactful because each purchase made is a direct benefit to our community,” said Mayor Tim McGallian. “While the purchase of a gift card may seem like a small act, it is a huge gesture of support for our community that will go a long way toward helping our local businesses keep their doors open.”

Businesses can continue to sign up for Shop Concord even after the initial launch, so customers are encouraged to check back frequently to see the expanding merchant list.

“Liberty Gymnastics Training Center is participating in Shop Concord to show support and unity with businesses within the city during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic,” said Terri Nuno, Community Relations and Special Events Director for Liberty Gymnastics Training Center. “By participating in Shop Concord, we are able to provide a benefit to our customers at no additional cost to our business. We are extremely grateful to the City of Concord and Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce for facilitating this amazing program.”