Kalamazoo Chamber program encourages local spending

A program launched by the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce could help local businesses increase trade and local consumers save money.

The new program, called Try it Local, is an electronic discount program that gives local retailers, restaurants, service industries and others a new way to offer deals.

The deals are offered one or two days a week. Deals can be as much as 40 to 90 percent off regular prices. Discounts offered through the program come from retailers, bars, salons, dry cleaners, and on attractions and special events.

The deals are offered to participants on e-mail, the Try It Local website and Facebook and Twitter.

With a click of the mouse, interested buyers can purchase an offer.  They can print out a voucher and redeem it at a local business.

Try It Local supports the local economy and area companies, says Steward Sandstrom, CCE, president and CEO of the Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The program is a partnership with the national organization Try It Local, which has 15 participating cities. And Try It Local President, Todd Earwood says the company is excited to be in Kalamazoo.

There is no cost to subscribe to the program and there is no cost to member businesses offering a featured deal.

The company keeps 70 percent of the day’s total sales and is responsible only for determining the deal and preparing to meet the increased demand for its product or service.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Renee Cook, Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce