TAP to Present Results of Buy Local Study

Jane Veron and Lisa Tretler of The Acceleration Project (TAP) and the Scarsdale Chamber of Commerce invite the community to a presentation of the results of TAP's Buy Local study on Monday, June 16, at 6:30 pm, at the Scarsdale Public Library.

TAP, in collaboration with the Scarsdale Chamber of Commerce, initiated a Buy Local study to promote the vibrancy of Scarsdale retail hubs and the community overall.

Scarsdale small businesses have never before faced so many challenges to their vitality. Competition from the internet and national and regional chains have put significant pressure on local businesses. The Village has witnessed a rise in vacant storefronts, adversely impacting the community as a whole.

In response, TAP assembled a team of 19 consultants, industry experts and interns to develop recommendations to drive more customers to Scarsdale businesses, increasing loyalty and volume and to educate stakeholders on their role in enhancing the vibrancy of Scarsdale's retail hubs. With the support of Scarsdale resident, Carol Fitzgerald, President and CEO of Buzzback market research firm, TAP fielded a quantitative survey to assess consumer buying behavior and preferences and received overwhelming support, with 517 consumers responding. They also interviewed over 60 businesses and garnered 50 business survey responses to gauge business perceptions. In addition, they researched best practices, identifying 20 effective initiatives in other communities across the country and numerous examples locally. To date, the team has donated over 2000 professional hours to this project.

On June 16, they will share the details of their survey results as well as practical recommendations to promote the vibrancy of the retail hubs. They will also unveil the components of a Buy Local marketing campaign, including unique logo, tagline, and messaging.

This final presentation is relevant for all Scarsdale stakeholders: residents, business owners, community leaders, and government officials. Each plays an important part. Thriving commercial hubs elevate the success of the entire community and make Scarsdale an attractive place to live, work, eat, and shop. Help Scarsdale flourish by attending the presentation on Monday, June 16, at 6:30 p.m. at the Scarsdale Public Library.