The ‘shop local’ initiative, SteinBucks, a gift certificate program is heading into its fourth year, and charging full steam ahead.
42 various local merchants have come on-board for the 2009-2010 SteinBucks Program, an initiative by the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce that promotes shopping at and supporting local businesses.
In fact, this year there are ten new merchants that have come on board and will be accepting SteinBucks from customers.
According to Chamber President Paul Neustaedter, the program is catching on more and more each year with both purchasers and merchants. “It’s a great thing to walk into a store or restaurant and see people pulling out SteinBucks to pay at the cashier. It goes to show that our community sees the value in shopping local and supporting the local economy right here at home”
Neustaedter affirms.
Those colourful little bucks (this year salmon in colour) are redeemable dollar-for-dollar at any of the participating merchants which are listed on the back of each SteinBuck. This year they are available in $5, $10, $20, and $50 denominations.
Chamber Marketing Chair Doug Homick is pleased to see the increasing diversity of participating merchants, stating “The beauty of the SteinBucks program is that there is something for everyone; whether it be dining out, retail shopping, fueling up, or home renovations”. Homick continues to say “There are even aesthetic services/salons, vehicle and equipment dealers, and professional services… so it’s a sure bet for anyone and everyone”.
In its third year, the program really hit a growth spurt with an increase of over 500% in purchases which equalled over $126,000. President Neustaedter is happy to see this persistent growth…”The SteinBucks program is one that was built from the ground up, and thanks to the support of local merchants, businesses, and purchasers, we believe the potential of the program and all of its benefits will continue to grow”.
The 2009-2010 SteinBucks Program runs from September 1, 2009 to December 31, 2010. SteinBucks are available through the Chamber Office and for sale at The UPS Store in Victoria Plaza. Orders can also be placed online.
