Mayor Gordon Prompts Economic Stimulus; Taps Locally-owned Businesses

Buy Local Week proclaimed for December 8th-14th, 2008

PHOENIX, Ariz. – As consumers head out to do their holiday shopping this year, Mayor Phil Gordon says “keep your money where your home is.” Consumers can make a significant impact on the local economy simply by choosing to spend their dollars locally. Studies have shown that money spent in locally-owned businesses re-circulates in the local economy up to three times more than dollars spent elsewhere.*
 
“Consumers can make simple choices that will affect the long-term health of the city,” says Kimber Lanning, executive director of Local First Arizona who oversees the coalition of over 1500 Arizona businesses.
 
A recent study conducted in Grand Rapids, Michigan, revealed that a modest change in consumer behavior — a mere 10 percent shift in market share to independent businesses — would result in 1,600 new jobs, $53 more million in wages, and a $137 million economic impact to the area.*
 
Lanning also reminds customers to shop around for the best deals. “Many people mistakenly assume local businesses are more expensive, but that is not always the case.”
 
City of Phoenix leaders are asking Phoenix residents to support local businesses as much as possible, but especially the week of December 8th-14th when holiday shopping and dining will be in full swing.  “Local businesses throughout Phoenix have been an important part of the City’s economic development and in these challenging economic times, we are asking our residents to make buying decisions that can have a greater positive impact where they live,” said City of Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon. “Shop locally, shop Phoenix.”
 
A Press conference is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2nd, at 10:30 AM at the Light Rail stop and Central and Washington Street.  Mayor Gordon will be joined by City Council members for the proclamation announcement, and to recognize the contributions of local businesses throughout the city.
 
In order to cheer on the local businesses that are the backbone of the economy, the entire Phoenix City Council has agreed to either wear or bring an item to the press conference that was purchased at a local business in their district.
 
Local First Arizona
www.LocalFirstAZ.com
 
Mission:
Local First Arizona seeks to promote, support, and celebrate a vibrant and sustainable Arizona economy by educating citizens about local business ownership, social equity, cultural diversity, environmental kinship, and collaboration.

Technorati Tags: Arizona, Business, economy, Local First Arizona, Phoenix