Production of the 2008 Where the Locals Go! Coupon Book is now underway!  This book will include coupons for locally owned businesses including retailers, service providers, restaurants, farms and more.  It will also include tips on being a Local.

A recent poll shows that 69% of Bellingham residents recognize the Think Local, Buy Local, Be Local logo and are familiar with the campaign.  58% are now more deliberately shopping locally.  Where the Locals Go! Coupon Book is an excellent way to let shoppers know who’s local.

DETAILS
• 4000 books will be printed and sold throughout Whatcom County.
• On Sale approximately November 15th, 2007
• Expiration Date 10/31/08
• Deadline for inclusion is EXTENDED TO FRIDAY, AUGUST 24th.
• First Coupon for Sustainable Connections members is FREE!  Additional coupons cost $89 each.
• For businesses that only participate in the Think Local First Campaign or the Food and Farming Program first coupon cost $45.  Additional $89 each.
• Local, independently owned businesses who are not members of Sustainable Connections or participate in our programs can submit offers that will be placed in the book if space is available, these coupons are available for $89 each.
• Where the Locals Go! Coupon Book has been the #1 selling book at Village Books!
• A limited amount of books will be available for FUNDRAISING.  Click here for more details.

Here are some good reasons to use a coupon as a part of your marketing plan;
1. Coupons are a great way to draw new residents to your business when they are still forming their shopping habits in their new hometown.  We're all aware of new people moving to Whatcom County.  Let them know who you are!
2. Coupons often lure old customers back.  Give them a deal they can't refuse and they'll leave your competitor behind.
3. Coupons bring people into your store which can increase impulse purchases and incremental sales.
4. Coupons are one of the most easily trackable form of promotion helping you to understand what's driving customers to your store.
5. Coupons are a good opportunity to create an up-sale.  Customers may be willing to purchase a more expensive product if they feel like they are getting a deal.
6. A study published by Cornell University’s Hotel and Restaurant Admin Quarterly found that customers who redeemed a restaurant coupon were almost 7.5 times more likely to come back  than customers who did not use a coupon!

For more information about the 2008 Where the Locals Go! Coupon Book contact Michelle Grandy at 360 647-7093, ext 110 or mgrandy@sconnect.org.