Holiday Shoppers Urged to Buy Local

Mayor, business leaders launch Buy Providence/Buy Art campaign to support local merchants during holiday sales season

(Photo by Michael Christofaro.)

PROVIDENCE - Mayor David N. Cicilline joined dozens of local merchants, business leaders, dancers from Festival Ballet Providence and representatives from Trinity Rep to encourage area shoppers to Buy Providence/Buy Art this holiday season. Standing amid tables laden with samples, original artwork, handmade gifts and jewelry, the Mayor launched his 6th annual holiday initiative to boost local sales during the upcoming "Black Friday" weekend and holiday shopping season.

"Now, more than ever, Rhode Islanders should remember their local merchants when they shop this holiday season," the Mayor said. "When we Buy Providence, we are helping to strengthen our economy. These small businesses create jobs and income for local families, support other small businesses and contribute to the city and state's economic strength and vitality."

"Providence is renowned for its artwork, clothing, dining, leather goods, toys and other products. Buy Providence / Buy Art is one important way we can remind shoppers of the wonderful and unique items we have to offer, and the patronage we can give our talented entrepreneurs to help fuel our economy."

Buy Providence puts shoppers in direct contact with scores of local businesses that are registered on our Buy Providence website: http://bpba.providenceri.com. Merchants register on this site, upload information on sales and specials - and shoppers can browse their favorite merchandise. Window signs will once again be distributed to local merchants interested in participating in the high-impact, no-cost marketing campaign.

Buy Art
This will be the third year the Buy Providence campaign includes Buy Art, an initiative of the Department of Art, Culture + Tourism in partnership with local artists. The website links shoppers to Providence galleries, stores, individual artists, museums and performing arts venues selling art and art experiences.

Those who purchase art during the holiday season will be given unique Buy Art buttons -designed by local artists and reflecting the Creative Capital's renowned and eclectic art scene. Four distinct buttons were chosen through a design competition in which artists submitted button designs.

Buy Providence was created in 2005 by the Mayor's Office, and actively supported by the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, Providence Foundation, Providence Economic Development Partnership (PEDP), Providence Tourism Council and Providence Warwick Convention and Visitors Bureau.

For more information on Buy Providence/Buy Art, visit www.bpba.providenceri.com or for other city economic development programs www.opportunityprovidence.com.