Mercer County Residents Reminded To Shop Local This Holiday Season

The holiday shopping season is upon us, and Mercer County officials are reminding residents to keep it local this year.

“The effect on our economic development community can be significant when we decide to buy local,” Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes said. “Several studies have shown that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, more of that dollar spent is reinvested into the community. That particular business is more likely to purchase goods or services from local or regional businesses, and thus stimulate more economic growth.”

For example, studies have shown that for every $100 spent at a retail chain, there is a $14 return to the community. On the other hand, for every $100 spent at a local business, there is a return of $45 to the community.

In addition, Mercer County has several buy local initiatives in place to promote and support these businesses.

“Throughout the year, our very own Mercer County Buy Local campaign assisted in the outreach of our local business communities,” Hughes said. “In partnership with the Small Business Development Center, we held breakfast programs throughout the year whereby businesses gathered to network and share ideas.”

Shop Hamilton, Keep It Local Robbinsville, Lawrenceville Main Street, Princeton Merchants Association and the Princeton Regional Chamber of Commerce Independent Business Alliance all play an important role in their local communities.

Average U.S. town revenues without a buy local initiative grow at 2.3 percent per year, while average U.S. town revenues with a buy local initiative grow at 7 percent per year, according to data provided by the county.
Besides these benefits, buying local generates more local job opportunities and creates environmentally friendly practices, officials added.

County officials concluded: “Whether it’s a visit to our nearby retail store or a buying a gift card at our local restaurant, let’s all remember our independently owned businesses this holiday season."