If it’s said so often, you might be wondering why I think it’s important to say it again.
More than ever, Richmond County business leaders are counting on their own to spend their money close to home this year.
In a battered economy, with foreclosures, tightening credit, business bankruptcies and job losses - there is fierce competition in the market. I will point out the facts again, when Richmond County taxpayers shop in outside counties, the taxes that they pay remain in that County!
The auto industry especially has taken a tremendous hit this year because lets face it, people just are not buying new cars right now. Mike Griffin, owner of several dealerships in our area had this to say when asked about the local auto industry, “We have had it rough in the last year, let’s hope we have hit the bottom and are headed up. We can all do a better job by first shopping locally before looking somewhere else.”
Other local retailers have been discounting items earlier than usual and have been mailing and e-mailing coupons like crazy to bring in customers.
Shopping locally is a matter of loyalty. It's important for the well-being of the community that businesses and services here today are still around when the economy improves.
These are all folks that have been here through all the good times, and we need to support them during the bad times. These local business owners sponsor our children’s Little League teams, donate to area schools and help local charities.
In response to the economic downturn, the chamber is working hard to work with struggling members to during these hard times. I can honestly say as the Chamber President that we have not turned a member away because of their inability to pay.
The Chamber’s message is simple is – Keep your dollars local, Shop Richmond First! Because Your Success is Our Business.
Emily Tucker
Chamber President
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