The 3/50 Project is a viral Buy Local campaign that sprung from a simple blog post in March 2009, supporting independent, locally owned, "brick and mortar" businesses like the Willow Tree and Chelsea.By educating consumers about the impact of their spending habits, the Project's goal is to increase consumer spending in a way that delivers the greatest amount of financial benefit to local community economies.
The message
The Project's tag line, "Saving the Brick and Mortars Our Nation is Built On" refers to its sole purpose—retention of locally owned, independent businesses, whose dollars provide a large portion of annual revenue critical to funding public resources and services.
Consumers are asked to think of three businesses they would miss if they disappeared (like Dolce Vita, Zara's, Cheesecake Magic, The Victorian Tea Room) then return to them, with a reminder that those transactions are what keeps the doors open.
The number 50 ties to the fact that if just half (50%)of the employed U.S. population dedicated $50 of their current monthly spending to locally owned independent businesses (instead of the national chains), more than $42.6 billion of revenue would be generated annually.
The 3/50 Project message then explains that for every $100 spent in local, independent brick and mortar businesses, more than $68 returns to the local economy; when spent in a big box or chain, the amount drops to only $43.
If you spend it online, and unless you live in exactly the same community as the e-tailer, NOTHING comes home.
Knowing that patronizing Michaelangelos on Elm rathern than Olive Garden helps my own neighborhood makes me feel good.
Getting coffee from TONGUE'S or THE GRIND vs. Starbucks is good for our community!
Getting that holiday outfit for your children from CECILIA MELODY vs. Gymboree makes our main street more healthy!
Getting your clothing and accessories from WILLOW TREE vs. Chicos fuels the economy (and insures you'll look fabulous).
Shopping local at CHELSEA vs. Mens Warehouse keeps our Downtown vital. It's a no brainer!
Shopping at FINE THINGS or IT ALL MAKES SCENTS vs. Hallmark or Pottery Barn keeps your money where your house is!
It's EASY! JOIN THE MOVEMENT, won't you?
