- The Downtown Development Authority reports there are 125 businesses in downtown Bainbridge employing an estimated 500 people.
- How Bainbridge shoppers can keep the doors open for small businesses just by spreading the word.
- See stories of how local businesses encourage shoppers to support them.
Broadcast transcript:
How can neighbors help small businesses keep their doors open?
Learn how business owners are encouraging their neighbors to promote what Bainbridge has to offer.
“Word of mouth gets through,” said Kristin Smith, assistant manager at Factory Connection.
Smith has been working as an assistant manager at Factory Connection for the past year.
Smith said she worries the store is being forgotten about, despite its location in the downtown area, because of the large number of vacancies on Northwest Street.
“First of all, it's what it is. There's no other shopping store here,” Smith said.
Smith said that because Factory Connection is located on the outskirts of downtown, the store rarely benefits from the attractions that draw crowds to the city's downtown.
The Downtown Development Authority reports there are 125 businesses downtown employing an estimated 500 people.
The Bainbridge-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce recently encouraged local residents to:
6J Scrubs Ambassador Myra Harris said, “Please like, comment and share.”
Deidre Williams grew 6J Scrubs from her living room to opening a store downtown.
Williams' co-promotion from the local chamber of commerce generated $2,000 during last year's grand opening.
But now her team is working to get the word out that the company remains open.
“Our main concern is making sure people know the company is here,” Harris said.
The Downtown Development Authority provides grants and connects business owners and developers with low-interest loans through the Georgia City Foundation or the Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund.
However, business owners still need to think about ways to increase foot traffic in their stores.
“The first few days of the week always take longer,” Smith said.
Business owners can learn more ways to promote their business by contacting the National Small Business Association, Downtown Development Authority, and local chambers of commerce.
