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Shop Locally for the Holidays

November 21, 2022

By: Kate Hart-Zayaitz

Planning to spread some cheer this holiday season? Extend that cheer to your community during the holidays by purchasing one-of-a-kind creations from local small businesses in the Lehigh Valley. By doing so, you’ll be giving a gift that keeps on giving—local economic prosperity.

Did you know that for every $100 you spend at locally owned businesses, $48 out of every $100 is returned to the local economy, compared to just $14 when you shop at a national chain? Or were you aware of the country’s 32.5 million small businesses that create 62% of net new U.S. jobs annually? By shopping locally, you’re not only putting your hard-earned dollars to work in your community; you’re providing the fuel that powers our national economy.

Independent, community-serving businesses typically consume less land, carry more locally made products, and create less traffic and air pollution, so shopping locally is good for the environment too. Moreover, locally sourced goods and services like those found in Lehigh Valley are often crafted by local artisans and are exclusive to our region, making for memorable gift-giving during the holidays and beyond.

If you prefer your gifts without a shiny bow, gift an “experience” of tickets to an outside concert, picking up a meal from the local family-run restaurant, or hosting an intimate party with a few friends and family. Events like these are a great way to make memories and stay connected with one another, while also providing opportunities to support small businesses and help sustain the local economy.

Better yet, continue the movement beyond the holidays. Show support for entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the year by shopping locally and encouraging your friends and neighbors to do the same. Post a picture or video of your favorite locally sourced product and share it on social media as inspiration for others.

To learn more about how New Tripoli Bank supports local small businesses and the community, you can listen to testimonials from our business customers and the nonprofits we support.


Kate Hart-Zayaitz is New Tripoli Bank's Chief Lending Officer and Senior Vice President. Kate has spent many years working for various community banks in our area. She was born and raised in Emmaus and has been involved with multiple banking and economic organizations throughout the Lehigh Valley.

 

 

 

 


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