Gayle Robinson, owner of Robsinson’s Outdoor Store and president of Think Local First, holding a larget version of the new Think Local First rewards program card. Residents can use the free card or mobile app to earn merits at participating businesses.— Image Credit: Andrea Peacock Photo
A new loyalty program based in Victoria, B.C. has been set up in order to encourage residents to shop locally. While Think Local First is in its trial stage, it has almost 200 members, some of which are businesses that have joined the rewards program. The loyalty cards are currently available for free at any participating businesses and the program will officially launch this June. Users can also download the program as an app on iOS and Android devices.
Gayle Robinson, owner of Robinson’s and president of Think Local First, told Victoria News, “Every time you swipe the card, you’ll get merits at member businesses. But what it’s really about is supporting local businesses.”
Some of the companies that have already joined this initiative include several jewellery stores like Tonic Jewelry, Artina’s Jewellery, Melissa Caron Jewellers as well as Robinson’s Outdoor Store, Ocean River and Sports, Dig This, and Vancouver Island Brewery.
More information about the program can be found on thinklocalvictoria.com. CJ