The Greenwood-Leflore County Chamber of Commerce is intent on keeping shoppers in Greenwood this holiday season.
The chamber is promoting this idea through a new program, “Shop Greenwood.”
“While the concept of shopping locally is not new, it is going to be something of benefit to our members and to consumers. … We want people to understand the importance of spending money locally,” said Beth Stevens, executive director of the chamber.
A Quick Response Code, a black-and-white maze-like image, will be displayed on each sign at participating merchants and restaurants, Stevens said.
“It is something that is scannable with a smart phone. It will connect shoppers to the chamber’s mobile app,” Stevens said. “Once there, you can locate restaurants and shops. Coupons and discounts will also be offered.”
She said the mobile app should be available starting the first week of December.
Gail Goldberg, chairman of the chamber’s Retail Committee, said Shop Greenwood is necessary.
“We’re trying to raise the level of awareness of all the great shopping opportunities in Greenwood,” she said. “Greenwood has so many local merchants as well as great places to eat and stay. There is so much happening here. We’re trying to promote that idea.”
Goldberg, whose family owns Goldberg’s and Conerly Shoes, said the effort helps the entire community.
“A community benefits so greatly by shopping locally. Between Memphis and Jackson, we have some great, great offerings,” she said.
Economic vitality can be measured by the number of retail stores in a city, Goldberg said.
“The backbone of any community is the retailers,” she said.
Goldberg said the Holiday Open House, which was held on Nov. 8, showed merchants all over town can benefit from chamber-sponsored events.
“We had both downtown and Park Avenue merchants participating. It was great,” she said.
Unlike many other cities in the Delta, Greenwood has a thriving retail community, Goldberg said.
“We have much to be proud of,” she said.
• Contact Bob Darden at bdarden@gwcommonwealth.com.
