Spend $100 and earn a $20 gift card during the Shop Local Bonus Program

ATASCADERO — The Shop Local Bonus Program is back this holiday season. It takes all of us to help build a thriving Atascadero community. Local businesses are asking Atascadero residents to shop local this holiday season.

Starting Nov. 18, for every $100 spent at a qualifying business, you can be rewarded with a $20 gift card from participating businesses in the Atascadero community (excluding grocery stores, hardware stores, fast food stops, pet food, big box stores and gas stations) with the Shop Local Bonus Program.

Josh Cross, Atascadero Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, observes that when money goes to local businesses, it has a greater impact in the community. 

“Shopping locally is one of the best gifts you can give to your community,” Cross said. “Your purchases at local establishments support local families running the businesses and the employees working at them. Families will use that money to visit other Atascadero shops and restaurants that, in turn, support their own families. It creates a beautiful cycle of giving during the holiday season.”

Research by the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies demonstrates the benefit to the local economy that comes from shopping locally: “$68 for every $100 spent at a locally owned business stays in the community. When spending the same at a non-local business like a national chain, only $43 stays in your community.”

Save receipts from your purchases. Receipts must be readable and itemized; include the date, name of business, and total amount; be from Nov. 18 to Dec. 31; and add up to at least $100. Taxes, delivery fees, and shipping cannot be included in the total purchase.

According to Julie Matthews, Atascadero Chamber director of membership, “Supporting local businesses isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in the heartbeat of your community.”

Shoppers are encouraged to submit receipts quickly for their $20 gift cards as this program is available to the first 150 participants. Two free gift cards per household.

For a full listing of Chamber member participating businesses, visit atascaderochamber.org.