Hendrickson

Throughout the pandemic and current economic uncertainties, the GINCC and other local economic organizations promote Buy Local initiatives to support our businesses during these turbulent times.

The saying goes, “You don’t know what you lost until it’s gone.” There were plenty of times many local owners were concerned about closing their business these past two years.

Fortunately, the majority of them made it through, but we need to keep in mind that small businesses survive on smaller margins compared to larger retail chains and struggle to compete with online price points.

As we continue to go through a challenging stretch keep supporting the small retailers and shops. As a community we still need to buy local first when possible and support the businesses who in turn support our communities.

Throughout the summer the GINCC will be promoting local events and happenings that will revolve around supporting businesses. Every time an event is able to be successful and draw visitors to the area, it presents an opportunity to contribute toward the local economy.

The GINCC also supports and promotes several local buying initiatives to help our communities prosper. One being the Love on Local initiative which is a collaborative program hosted by the Lake Superior Community Partnership. Using a merchant card, the program runs using a debit card system and marketing to promote local spending in Marquette County.

Love on Local cards can be purchased with as little as $10 and up to $500 loaded on them. The campaign provides patrons the opportunity to support local businesses year-round and be entered in a monthly drawing for a $50 Love on Local card. For more information on the Love on Local program or to purchase a card go to www.loveonlocal.com

If we learned anything during the past two years is that we are stronger together and by supporting each other we can make a difference. So, as we look forward to a busy summer remember to think local first.

To learn more about the GINCC, visit our website at www.gincc.org, give us a call or stop in. Office hours are 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. We are at times out of office on Chamber business. Please call ahead to confirm a visit, 906-486-1111.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Bob Hendrickson is the executive director of the GINCC. He currently resides in Negaunee with his wife, Laura, and daughter, Sierra. He enjoys mountain biking, skiing, fishing and hunting along with family time.