Asheville – Asheville has officially declared July 2025 as Independent Retailer Month, a move aimed at celebrating the vital role of independently owned businesses in the community. This proclamation, announced on June 27, marks the beginning of a month-long initiative led by Go Local Asheville, Merchants of Downtown Asheville (MODA), Asheville Downtown Association, and Explore Asheville. The campaign encourages residents and visitors to take the “Shift 10” pledge, which calls for shifting 10% of their spending from national chains or online platforms to local independent shops throughout July.
Community Engagement and Economic Impact
Sherree Lucas, Executive Director of Go Local Asheville, emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses. “Locally owned businesses circulate three times more money back into the local economy than chain stores,” she stated. Lucas expressed excitement about the collaboration with the city and other organizations, highlighting that “every local purchase bolsters our local economy and supports this place we are proud to call home.”
The campaign includes several initiatives designed to engage the community. One of the highlights is the Shift 10 Pledge Campaign, which encourages shoppers to commit to spending locally during July. Additionally, a Shop & Win Scavenger Hunt will provide an interactive experience where participants can check in at independent retailers across the city for a chance to win a basket of locally-made goods and Biltmore tickets.
Dodie Stephens, Vice President of Marketing at Explore Asheville, noted the potential impact of small changes in consumer behavior. “According to The Business Journal, if every U.S. family spent $10 a month with locally owned businesses, over $9.3 billion would be returned to local economies like ours,” she explained. Stephens aimed to help people recognize how easy and meaningful it is to support independent retailers, stating, “They are the open doors and smiling faces who welcome our visitors to this deeply rooted, creative community.”
Toolkit for Local Businesses
To facilitate participation, Explore Asheville has developed a comprehensive toolkit for local businesses. This toolkit includes plug-and-play social graphics, storytelling prompts, and in-store signage that retailers can use to amplify their involvement in Independent Retailer Month. The resources aim to empower local businesses to effectively communicate their participation in the campaign.
Lucas reiterated the significance of this initiative not just for July but as a year-round commitment. “Go Local is proud to stand with the Asheville Downtown Association, Merchants of Downtown Association, Explore Asheville as well as other community-based organizations and our media community to help bring awareness to our residents and visitors about the importance of supporting our independent retailer community,” she said. “They make up a big part of our local economy and culture and deserve our support!”
The full toolkit and pledge form are available on the Explore Asheville website, providing easy access for businesses looking to engage with the campaign.
This proclamation aligns with a national movement aimed at recognizing the creativity and economic contributions of independent businesses. As Asheville joins this effort, it highlights the community’s commitment to fostering a vibrant local economy through collective action.