Buy Local Savannah is celebrating its 15th year with an introspective look at ways it can better serve local businesses and the community.
At its monthly luncheon Thursday, the organization will roll out a number of new committees designed to get member businesses more involved and interest non-member local businesses in joining.
Among the new committees are digital media, which will expand the group’s website into a resource for both business owners and the public; a campaign committee to help educate the public on the importance of buying local; a committee to advocate for local businesses and a member benefits committee.
“Buying Local is so important,” said Michele Thompson, president of Buy Local Savannah. “It ensures jobs for local families, a growing economy and community growth. I’m so excited to share with local business owners what Buy Local will have to offer in 2015.
“We are implementing tons of membership benefits and becoming more of an advocate to the local and independent community.”
Buy Local was formed in 1999 by three well-known Savannah businessmen — Rick Culbreth of Yates-Astro, Remer Lane of Remer Lane Insurance and Martin Sullivan of Sullivan Staffing — who agreed that a comprehensive campaign was needed to encourage shoppers to keep their money in the community by patronizing local businesses.
Today, the organization has some 150 member businesses whose revenues and expenditures remain within the local economy, multiplying four to seven times for each transaction, Thompson said.
“Their profits and payrolls go back into fueling the Savannah economy,” she said.
Buy Local Savannah members range from sole proprietors to companies with hundreds of employees. Monthly meetings feature a diverse range of speakers — from federal and state government officials to successful business people to marketing strategists — all ready to exchange ideas and success strategies.
Interested non-member local businesses are encouraged to attend Thursday’s luncheon, Thompson said.
“It is a great time to come and listen to all the benefits of joining our group, and it’s a great time to become involved in such an important part of our community.”
IF YOU GO
The August luncheon meeting of Buy Local Savannah will feature a discussion on ways to get involved. Non-members businesses are welcome.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday.
Where: The Pirates’ House.
Cost: $20 for members; $30 for non-members.
Registration required at: www.buylocalsavannah.com.