Local First Arizona has launched its “Shift the Way You Shop Campaign” to encourage consumers to buy from businesses along the Metro Light Rail, keeping more dollars in Arizona.
The focus of the campaign is to shift 10 percent of consumer spending back to local shops.
Shift Arizona’s website estimates local spending keeps $73 of every $100 spent circulating in the Arizona economy as opposed to non-local spending, which keeps $43 of every $100 spent.
The campaign features a directory of restaurants, shops and entertainment near each light rail stop, meant to give travelers ideas of where to spend to support the local economy.
Local First Arizona officials could not be reached for further comment on the Shift campaign.
David Hunsaker, a sales manager at Tempe Camera, said belonging to Local First helps the business fight online retailers that sacrifice service for lower prices.
“We feel you get better service and build a better economy if you keep things local,” Hunsaker said.
He said the efforts of the Shift campaign are important and hopes consumers will eventually keep all of their business in Arizona.
“Well, it’s a step in the right direction, but personally, I think we should keep all of it local,” Hunsaker said.
Frank Ellis, owner of Candy Addict near Mill Avenue and Fifth Street, said his business has been a member of Local First since it began in December 2010.
“Part of the reason we joined Local First is to be able to support an organization that promotes local businesses doing business with each other,” Ellis said.
Ellis said he promotes offers of other businesses around Mill Avenue and often directs his customers to businesses he knows work together with Candy Addict to support the Arizona economy.
Hunsaker said Tempe’s identity is defined by local businesses as customer support keeps the city a destination for people seeking personalized service and care.
“Keeping businesses local is paramount and it’s always been the identity of Tempe,” Hunsaker said. “If you lose that identity, there is no reason for people to even come to this city.”
Reach the reporter at brennan.j.smith@asu.edu
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