What is the 'Eat Drink Shop Local' Campaign?

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The campaign is a local effort hosted by the Lake County Economic Development Corporation to raise awareness about how shopping habits can impact the local economy. While the idea is not new, understanding the impact on local businesses has become more important. The cost of running a business is increasing and the amount of disposable income for households has decreased. When Lake County residents make purchases, it's important to consider how those resources are spent, and what happens to that money once it leaves your wallet.

The following sections will help explain some of the impact of shopping locally, and how you can participate. The campaign is designed so that everyone -businesses and individuals)- can do something (large budget or small) to raise awareness, help local businesses grow and our communities thrive.

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Who is participating?

Participating businesses are included in the interactive map linked below. This map will be updated each Monday.

Bonus: Businesses are encouraged to list their holiday shopping specials and promotions here too, check it out!

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Why is shopping locally important?

1. Stimulates the Local Economy: When you shop at local businesses, more of your money stays within the community. This helps to create jobs and supports local services.
2. Creates Jobs: Small businesses are significant employers. By supporting them, you help create and sustain jobs in your community.
3. Supports Community and Charities: Local businesses are more likely to support local causes and charities, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.
4. Offers Unique Products and Better Customer Service: Local shops often provide unique products that you can't find in big chain stores. Plus, they tend to offer more personalized and attentive customer service.
5. Promotes a Sense of Community: Shopping locally helps build a sense of community pride and connection. It encourages local entrepreneurship and innovation.
6. Reduces Environmental Impact: Local businesses often source their products locally, which reduces the need for long-distance transportation. This helps to lower carbon emissions and traffic congestion.

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How can my business participate?

1. Sign up here.
   • Signing up will add you to the business map and help us advertise the promotions your business has planned for the holiday season. Starting on November 3rd, and each Monday for the rest of the year, the map will be updated with new business sign ups.
   • After signing up, you will receive an email detailing how to get your free window cling.
2. View the recording from the Shop Local Kickoff webinar. During this webinar, Nicole Flora, Executive Director of the Lake EDC, shared the Eat Drink Shop Local campaign's purpose, components, and how to participate in this county-wide movement. Watch the webinar here. You can also see the slide deck here.
3. Share the Eat Drink Shop Local message on social media and add the logo to your website. Click to download the files here:

   • This badge can be used on your website or layered over social media pictures

     

     This badge can be used as a Facebook profile picture

     

     Cover Banners for Facebook

     

     

     
4. Use the following hashtag to help others find businesses who are participating: #EatDrinkShopLocalLakeCo

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I don't own a business, and I am on a budget. How can I help?

1. Consider making small changes in purchases you already make. Here are some examples:
   • Look for a locally grown or made alternative to your grocery shopping items. Don't forget local farmers markets!
   • Call a local provider for services you seek online. For example: call a broker for your insurance, to see if they can match or beat your current rates. Using a local broker keeps commission local.
   • Pause before your hit "buy" on our favorite online store. Is there a place locally that can provide this same item at a comparable price? Local businesses are more willing to answer the phone, answer specific questions about products and deliver. Just ask!
2. Comment and like when businesses share the Eat Drink Shop Local message. Each interaction on these posts helps visibility of the business and the shop local message.
3. In collaboration with The Bloom, there will be a series of articles and shopping guides for the holiday season that highlight local shops and businesses to help inspire your local holiday gift giving. Follow along! 
4. Follow Lake EDC on Facebook and Instagram for more ideas!