Jul 1, 2012

Twin Cities Metro Independent Business Alliance Urges: Celebrate Your Local “Independents” in JulyBy Michelle TranTCDailyPlanet.com

St. Paul, MN – For many Minnesotans, Independence Day means fireworks, flags, and outdoor barbeques. This July, members of the Twin Cities Metro Independent Business Alliance (MetroIBA) encourage you to “Celebrate Your Independents” all month long by shopping at local, independent stores. Twenty-five local businesses are offering special deals during the month of July, including The Wedge, St. Paul Corner Drug, and Midwest Mountaineering. With each purchase, shoppers will gain a chance to become one of two people to win $1,250 in gift cards from participating MetroIBA member businesses.

“The two main goals of ‘Celebrate Your Independents’ are to drive traffic to our retailers during a slower time of year and to educate the public about why it’s important to shop locally,” said Mary Hamel, Executive Director of MetroIBA, “Studies show that for every dollar you spend at local, independent businesses, it generates at least three times more direct benefit for the local economy than an absentee-owner chain.”

This year, a few more restaurants will be participating in the festivities. The new Bread & Pickle on Lake Harriet, Pat’s Tap, Red Stag Supperclub, and Bryant Lake Bowl are all offering food or drink specials.

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