Shop Local This Holiday Season: Supporting the Jacksonville Region’s Continued Growth

The Jacksonville region's vibrant downtowns are more than charming destinations for holiday shopping—they are the cornerstones of the community's economic vitality. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of organizations like the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce, these bustling hubs continue to grow, offering an inviting space for residents and visitors alike.

The Chamber's mission is to improve the business climate, promote economic development and enhance the quality of life in Jacksonville and surrounding communities. It plays a pivotal role in fostering a strong local economy. Through programs, campaigns, and networking opportunities, the Chamber supports over 500 member businesses, ensuring their success and sustainability.

This holiday season, the Chamber is doubling its commitment to local businesses, urging residents to shop locally and experience the unique benefits of supporting their community.

Why Shopping Local Matters

When you shop at a local store instead of heading to an online retailer or shopping outside the area, you invest directly in your community. For every $100 spent at a locally-owned business, approximately $73 stays within the community, compared to just $43 when shopping at national chains. Local businesses do more than sell products—they create jobs, support local families and give back to the community. In Jacksonville region, the taxes generated by local sales go toward funding schools and community services, making each purchase a contribution to the area's overall well-being.

Moreover, local businesses are deeply embedded in the fabric of the community. From volunteering and donating goods and services to organizing fundraisers, they play a vital role in making the Jacksonville region a better place to live. Ensuring their success strengthens the entire region and creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone.

Chamber Initiatives to Make Local Shopping Easy

To make shopping locally even more rewarding, the Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce offers its popular Chamber Check program. These gift certificates are redeemable at over 80 local businesses, offering flexibility and encouraging residents to keep their spending local. Since the program's inception in 2008, over $1 million in Chamber Checks have been sold, with a significant portion purchased during the holiday season.

The Chamber also runs a Shop Local ad campaign, highlighting the unique offerings of local businesses and encouraging residents to explore the variety available right in their backyard.

The Impact of Holiday Sales on Local Businesses

Holiday sales are critical for the success of small businesses, with 75% of small retailers relying on this season to meet their annual revenue goals. For many local entrepreneurs, a strong holiday season can make the difference between thriving or struggling during the slower first quarter of the year.

This cycle of community support fosters a dynamic, resilient local economy. The revitalization of downtown Jacksonville and continued growth along Morton Avenue proves what's possible when residents prioritize local businesses. The influx of jobs, increased tax revenue and rising interest from local developers and national chains are all testaments to the power of shopping small.

Shop Local and See the Benefits

Before turning to online giants or out-of-town shopping centers this holiday season, consider the unique value of shopping locally. Many Jacksonville area retailers offer online shopping options alongside in-person services, blending convenience with the personal touch and unique offerings only small businesses can provide.

As the Chamber emphasizes: "Small business offerings, in the Jacksonville region, tend to be more unique or one-of-a-kind. Local stores can offer personalized service and special touches that online shopping doesn't offer."

By shopping locally, you're not just buying gifts—you're supporting jobs, fueling community development and preserving the charm of our small towns. Make this holiday season one to remember by investing in the people and businesses that call Jacksonville and the surrounding communities home.