As summertime is in full swing, the Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce reminds local shoppers to remember to shop local businesses.
“We’re in the last stretch of the summer holiday, and we’re encouraging shoppers to think about shopping local. So many people we talk to ask how they can get involved in the community, and a great start is to shop locally,” said Acadia Parish Chamber President Amy Thibodeaux.
Local shopping is crucial to our continued growth because the success of local businesses attracts and encourages other entrepreneurs to start local businesses, which leads to more jobs and revenue re-circulating throughout our community. When you shop local, you’re making a personal investment in your neighborhood and community. In fact, for every $100 spent, roughly $68 to $73 of it returns to local activity.
Since 1989, the Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce has administered the Chamber Cash Program, which is a gift certificate program that encourages recipients to shop locally. Each year, the Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce circulates over $75,000 in Chamber Cash helping keep shopping dollars locally.
Businesses, as well as individuals, may purchase Chamber Cash from the Chamber office in any denominations to be given as gifts, bonuses or as part of an incentive program. There is no surcharge for the certificates. Over 80 participating Chamber members accept Chamber Cash just as they would their own gift certificate. Also, in the spirit of regional cooperation, there is a reciprocal agreement between the Acadia and Rayne Chambers of Commerce. Chamber member businesses of both communities who provide goods or services will be able to accept Chamber Cash issued by the Acadia and Rayne Chambers.
“Chamber Cash makes the perfects gift,” says Thibodeaux. “It can be redeemed at a wide variety of merchants– from retail to grocery stores, and even professional services like dentists and accountants. The program truly strives to keep local dollars here in Acadia Parish with Chamber Members who support our community.”
Shoppers can visit the Acadia Parish Chamber Office during regular office hours or call ahead to order at 337 788 0177.
