A new ‘Love Local’ initiative aims to generate support for local Penticton business during trying times.
The campaign, launched by the City of Penticton’s Economic Development department, aims to raise awareness about how local businesses are operating, and simultaneously encourage residents to buy, eat and choose local first.
The City’s economic development specialist, Andrew Kemp, said the City is proud of how the community has come together during challenging times.
“In the coming weeks, we will have more opportunities to show our support as businesses find new and innovative ways to safely reopen. We want to showcase these stories and encourage people to think local first,” said Kemp.
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Kemp encouraged residents to support their favourite small businesses by taking concrete steps such as buying local online, purchasing gift cards from local businesses to use later, ordering delivery or takeout from area restaurants, taking a picture of your favourite places and sharing it online, and leaving positive online reviews.
The City explained that the Love Local initiative will use storytelling and social media to show how the community is working together to support local.
“Amid these challenging times, we’ve seen many examples of the community pulling together. We’ve seen stories of resiliency and compassion,” said Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki.
“Love Local is a way to show we care, while supporting our neighbours and showcasing the spirit of Penticton.”
The City further explained that businesses will be provided with posters carrying ‘Safely Open for Business’ messaging to post in their establishments. Businesses can contact the City for their ‘Love Local’ window cling decal, which will act as a visual reference that the business is open.
Locals are encouraged to share images on social media using #lovelocalpenticton, which can include positive messages, or a photograph of a takeout meal.
Visit Starthereokanagan.com/lovelocal to learn more about the initiative.
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