The City of San Luis Obispo says the fifth year of its Buy Local Bonus initiative to bring more spending to local businesses was a success.
The city spent $115,000 on gift cards from local stores that shoppers could redeem after spending at least $100 at local businesses over the holidays.
According to the city, the program funneled $868,597 into the local business community, a 685% return on their gift card investment.
“The Buy Local Bonus program is a win for both the community and small businesses,” said Lindsey Haring, co-owner of The Mountain Air and The Switchback.
In the first five years of the program, the city says it has generated $3.6 million for small businesses in SLO.
The program is set to return next holiday season.
