Buy Bossier: It’s important to keep it local, now more than ever

 

The Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation (GBEDF) is encouraging local shoppers to “Buy Bossier” this holiday season. The GBEDF has created a website to showcase the relevant data related to our retail sector in order to engage locals in ways they can be a part of their community’s economic success. Additionally, the site hosts a tool that allows users to search within Bossier for any goods or services for those who rely on the convenience of online shopping.

The original campaign is meant to deter retail leakage due to the increasingly popular trend of purchasing goods and services online through companies outside of the area. With the negative effects of the current pandemic still lingering and restrictions still in place, it is more important than ever to support local businesses. Many business owners had to quickly pivot operations and work harder to support locals during the phased shutdowns and have suffered through unforeseen circumstances. In some circumstances, this means implementing new technology that will help them streamline their business operations, giving their customers an updated experience, for example, looking into how Payment Terminal machines can benefit their business and help them receive a variety of payment options that are becoming more prevalent today.

Retailers and restaurants have been creative in their delivery of services since the onset of the pandemic. Many offer options such as online ordering, curbside pickup, delivery and special discounts in an effort to help keep you safe while shopping.

Retaining retail trade dollars in our market and keeping the local income circulating in our trade area is an important part of Bossier’s economic success.

“When you Buy Bossier, you help to build a better Bossier.” shared Rocky Rockett, executive director of the GBEDF.

“Retail sales tax dollars flow back into the local municipality’s bottom line, which in turn helps to further fund investments in public safety, quality of life and infrastructure improvements.” Rockett added

Patronizing Bossier businesses, both big box retail as well as small businesses, does in fact have an impact on the further development of the area. The GBEDF invites the business community to join with them in advancing their mission to market the Bossier community in Northwest Louisiana.

Local Retail Facts and Figures

2019 Annual Retail Sales Total

  • Bossier Parish $2,736,297,543
  • Bossier City $1,982,997,760

Source: Greater Bossier Economic Development Foundation (GBEDF)

Number of Employees in the Retail Trade Sector (2019)

  • 6,814
  • 15% of Bossier Parish’s local workforce is employed by the retail trade sector.

Source: Louisiana Workforce Commission, Louisiana Occupational Source: LOIS, Labor Market Statistics

Total Wages Paid in the Retail Sector for Bossier Parish (2019)

  • $193,920,684

Source: Louisiana Workforce Commission, Louisiana Occupational Source: LOIS, Labor Market Statistics