DDNA partners with independent business advocacy groups to launch 'Shop Indie Local'

On Nov. 1, the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) will launch its Shop Indie Local holiday campaign, urging individuals and businesses to shift their holiday spending to locally owned and independent businesses. Destination Downtown Newton Alliance (DDNA), along with sixty-one business alliances and networks in towns and cities throughout North America will participate in this collaborative campaign. The campaign continues through December.

“Now, more than ever, small businesses must work together,” Derek Peebles, executive director of AMIBA, said. “Shop Indie Local represents a movement that cultivates hope and empowerment.”

Every dollar spent at a locally owned and independent business returns two to three times more dollars back into a community than a dollar spent at a non-local business. Those dollars represent a significant contribution to local jobs, taxes and other community-building investments.

As part of the Shop Indie Local movement, DDNA member stores are holding a Holiday Kickoff Open House Nov. 6 through Nov. 7 that features their newest gift-worthy merchandise, product tasting and services such as custom floral design, personalized clothing style boxes and gift wrapping. Curbside pickup, local delivery and phone or online ordering are available from many small businesses. For a complete list of participating businesses and the activities they have planned for the Holiday Kickoff event, visit DDNA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/destinationdowntownnewton.

“We work closely with AMIBA and with Newton Main Street on events that bring community members together to shop, eat and enjoy the personality that unique Newton independents offer. From quilting to knitting, designing a custom bracelet, selecting toys and stocking stuffers, enjoying pastries and comfort food, there is something for every age, gender and budget at our member businesses,” Vicki Wade, President of DDNA, said.

Partners bring their own local flair, using Shop Indie Local templates and incorporating events like Plaid Friday and Cider Monday (pro-local antidotes to the chain-centered Black Friday and “Cyber Monday”) into their efforts. DDNA is partnering with AMIBA and Newton Main Street to create a fun, rewarding Shop Small Saturday by handing out “Shop Small Bucks” with purchases made on Nov. 28.

About Shop Indie Local

Shop Indie Local occurs annually from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. The campaign provides a gateway to resources that activates partners to spread this movement where they live. It also works to amplify each business network’s efforts to promote buying local throughout the campaign: shopindielocal.org.

About Destination Downtown Newton Alliance

The Mission of the Destination Downtown Newton Alliance is to advance the vibrancy, vitality, and prosperity of the downtown district and community. The alliance is comprised of more than 20 retailers, restaurants and service businesses in Newton.