Shop Local program looks to improve Vernon business

VERNON — Vernon Township is diving into a “Shop Local” campaign in order to encourage the growth of existing businesses and attract others to the area.

At a cost of $10 per month, merchants can participate in the Economic Development Advisory Committee’s program to invest in advertising in order to bring more patrons through the doors of their establishments.

Mayor Victor Marotta attended a meeting with participating municipalities in order to speak to town officials about the benefits of the program in their communities.

Marlboro Township, in Monmouth County, pioneered this program and began with an initial 15 merchants willing to take part in the endeavor.

Marotta explains that within six months Shop Marlboro “generated tremendous acceptance and growth within the township.”

Marotta said he is hopeful that when implemented locally, Shop Vernon will be just as successful, starting at 14 merchants. Marlboro boasts a current status of 45 merchants involved in the campaign.

Vernon’s role as a recreational town as well as one filled with commuters makes the Shop Local program a necessity. Many people vacation and enjoy skiing and other attractions, and would be thrilled to stay near their vacation site to enjoy restaurants and purchase other products, Marotta said. Also, commuters find it easier to stop by a larger store on the way home from work, possibly an hour away from Vernon, taking more profits away from local merchants.

If local businesses started to flourish more, other merchants would choose to open in Vernon, providing the economy with the boost it needs, from both tourists and residents.