AREA RESIDENTS TO CHOOSE
              LOCALLy-OWNED INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES

If you are are concerned about strengthening the quality of life in Portland's neighborhoods and the economic vitality of the greater Portland area, you need to consider the positive impact you have when you buy from independent, locally owned businesses. Voting with your dollars does make a difference, and it is a positive step towards connecting with your community, reducing your impact on the earth, and becoming a more engaged citizen.

The Local First campaign is a project of the Sustainable Business Network of Portland, an alliance of over 350 locally owned independent businesses deidcated to fostering a truly sustainable local economy.  We help businesses implement sustainable business practices, hold networking and educational events monthly and encourage businesses to source locally whenever possible. We also do several joint marketing promotions throughout the year and a yearly business conference in the Spring. See Events for upcoming activities. Individuals, check out Why Local First for more information on choosing locally owned businesses. Businesspeople, click here for information about joining SBNP and your eligibility. Be sure to check out our online marketplace directory for detailed listing of locally owned independent businesses. To view a PDF file listing participating members,  members.pdf.

To get involved or volunteer, or for more info, contact Robyn Shanti at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or 503-232-2943.

National Survey Finds Support for "Buy Local" Boosted Holiday Spending at Independent Stores

As major chains report weak holiday sales, a nationwide survey of 1,382 independent retailers has found that a desire to support locally owned businesses is emerging as a factor in people's shopping choices.

The survey, which included retailers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., found that, even in a difficult economic climate, many independent retailers are holding their own and even seeing sales gains by emphasizing their local ownership and community roots. Click here to download full  press_release.pdf.

Retailers in cities with active "Buy Local" campaigns reported much larger increases in holiday sales on average than those in cities without such campaigns. "Buy Local" campaigns have been launched by local business alliances in more than three dozen communities. Independent retailers in these cities reported an average gain in sales of about 2% over the 2006 holiday season, while those in cities without "Buy Local" campaigns saw an increase of less than 0.5%.