Discover Our Local campaign launched

An Eastern Bay of Plenty campaign aims to help local businesses get back on their feet after a double blow to the local economy following the Whakaari/White Island eruption and COVID-19.

The Discover Our Local Campaign is the brainchild of Whakatane District Council, Eastern Bay of Plenty (EBOP) Chamber of Commerce, EPIC Whakatane Town Centre retail group and Radio 1XX. Seeing the need to work together to create a stronger, cohesive message, the group hopes other organisations across the region will get on board and share the love for local.

EBOP Chamber of Commerce Chair Karl Gradon says eastern bay communities need to get behind their local businesses and understand the benefits to all in doing so.

"Not only have we lost our international visitor market, but due to the COVID-19 crisis, we are now at zero visitor spend. So, it's absolutely up to locals to keep local businesses afloat. If we do not shop local, these businesses will not survive and we will no longer have a thriving economy, social wellbeing and a vibrant place to live.

"Whakatane, Opotiki and Kawerau District Councils are on board with the campaign and we hope other organisations will help spread the word." he says.

The Discover Our Local tagline was decided on to highlight what you might be surprised to find at local stores and realise there is no need to shop elsewhere. Mr Gradon says it's not just about shopping local but discovering some great things along the way.

Discover Our Local marketing collateral will be shared with key stakeholders across the eastern bay. This sits alongside a marketing campaign via social media, local radio, email and outdoor media.

Business Videos - Tell Us Your Story

As part of the campaign, local businesses are encouraged to record a short video of themselves to share to potential customers.

While you don't currently have customers popping in to say hi in store, you can re-create that important customer interaction virtually. As you know, creating strong connections with your local customers helps create loyalty. Customers get to know you personally and gain a better understanding of what you have to offer. This can mean the difference between a customer choosing to shop locally or to buy elsewhere.

We want to share your story, to help you on the customer journey and to get our locals supporting local. When the time is right, we will also welcome back visitors to our region and your story is also important to their experience.

Follow this simple guide for some ideas to record your story and strengthen customer loyalty in a digital world.

For further support and marketing collateral contact info@ebopchamber.co.nz