Gov. Hogan Encourages Marylanders To Shop Local This Holiday
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The holiday season is underway and millions of Americans are spending big money.
That's why local leaders are encouraging Marylanders to support locally-owned businesses.
Shop Maryland is a reminder that shopping here is a good deal for the state, and the benefits last long after the season is over.
From mega malls to online stores, shoppers have no shortage of options.
But Governor Larry Hogan has other ideas for how locals can spend their cash this holiday.
"Nothing against shopping on the internet or going to the mall or the big box store, but this year, let's come to Ellicott City and spend some money," he said Monday, as he criss-crossed the state and urged Marylanders to spend their money at locally-owned shops.
He launched the tour in Ellicott City, which is still bouncing back after a devastating flood killed two people and destroyed historic Main Street in July.
The Marylander Retailers Association says the money is crucial.
More than 760,000 Marylanders work in retail, making these shops the number one private sector employer in the state, and the second largest source of tax revenue.
"It is jobs," says Cailey Locklair Tolle, president of MRA. "It's tax revenue. It's neighborhood stabilization. It's how you actually invest in your community."
"I like the mom and pop shops," shopper Eric Hunter told WJZ's Amy Yensi. "It's local and keeps the money local."
Business owners say they depend on the holiday shopping season to make up for other times of low sales during the year. For some, holiday sales account for 25 percent of the year's revenue.
"It's really what carries us through the next quarter after the holidays," says Nicholas Johnson, owner of Su Casa.
At Bill's Music in Catonsville, the owners know they can't compete with the big-name stores that can afford to slash prices. Their selling point is personalization.
"In our own small business way, we can keep up with it," says Jamie Reese. "We have a lot of value here. A lot of people with a lot of knowledge that can not only sell you something but kind of follow-up."
This Friday, Ellicott City will host its annual Midnight Madness shopping event. Stores and restaurants will stay open until midnight for everyone who wants to do some shopping.
A recent survey estimates the average consumer spends $935 on gifts, decor and other holiday items.
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