Gov. Hochul Encourages New Yorkers to Shop Locally: to Keep Dollars in their Own Communities

Gov. Kathy Hochul today encouraged all New Yorkers to shop locally, as Boro Parkers buy gifts and prepare to light the first Chanukah candles tonight.

“New York's small businesses generate millions of jobs throughout the state and by choosing to shop locally every day, New Yorkers are investing in their neighborhoods and strengthening their communities,” said Gov. Hochul, who added that shopping locally doesn’t just keep tax dollars in the state, but keeps revenue flowing in shoppers’ own neighborhoods.

 "Every time you head to your neighborhood coffee shop or restaurant or visit that corner store and pick up something that catches your eye, you are supporting local small businesses,” said Empire State Development Acting Commissioner and President & CEO-designate Hope Knight. “Small businesses are the fabric of our communities and when they thrive, we all thrive.”

"I helped my mom start a flower shop, and I know just how much hard work it takes to get a small business off the ground,” Gov. Hochul said. “As small businesses recover from the economic toll of the pandemic, many are counting on sales generated during the holiday season to make their profits and stay afloat.

"So let's all lend a hand by shopping locally at small businesses in our communities on throughout the holiday season and every day."  

  Gov. Hochul’s office even provided the following practical tips on how to New Yorkers can best support small businesses this holiday shopping season and throughout the year:

• Purchase gift cards, which are always welcome gifts, from your favorite local restaurants, coffee shops, and specialty retailers.  

• Order take-out, delivery, and curbside delivery from your local restaurants, which have been among the hardest hit by the pandemic. 

• Shop online at your favorite local businesses to avoid crowds.  

• Write positive reviews online after you find great products, eat wonderful meals, or benefit from particularly good sales and promotions. The best advertising is word-of-mouth.  

• If you have to make returns, try keep your money in local businesses by accepting store credits instead of insisting on refunds: if you can.