ShopArlington Promotes Local Businesses, Offers Savings
Want to save money on meals, shopping and services while supporting Arlington’s business community? The ShopArlington retail program is beneficial for both businesses and residents. ShopArlington was developed by staff from the county’s Arlington Economic Development (AED) department in 2003 and has been active off and on over the past few years. AED launched the current campaign, “Shop Local. Shop Arlington,” in 2009 to aid the struggling economy.
The goal of ShopArlington is to promote retail in Arlington, especially small businesses, said Kelly Rindfusz, AED communications director.
“Arlington depends on its small retail businesses as key components of its economic sustainability and its neighborhood character,” she said. “At a time when retail across the country is struggling, Arlington’s shops and restaurants are performing well, and in many cases, thriving.”
Rindfusz cited as examples the new concepts developed by many operators, such as Northside Social (3211 Wilson Blvd.) and Lyon Hall (3100 N. Washington Blvd.) in Clarendon, Sushi Rock (1900 Clarendon Blvd.) in Courthouse and Twisted Vines at 2803 Columbia Pike.
Currently, 123 merchants participate in ShopArlington’s “Save Big Bucks” savings card program. Any retail business located in Arlington is eligible to participate in the savings card program, regardless of whether it is a national chain, franchise or independently owned, Rindfusz explained. Only Arlington locations may participate, however.
