Maricopa Chamber Director’s Blog

More on Shopping local…

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Last modified: November 20, 2007

This is an open response to all who have email me with comments on my article on shopping local. This was the fifth article I have written over the past year on this subject and the first time I have gotten any feedback. At least it was read. The intent here is to inform not to debate. The Chamber of Commerce is not responsible for the quality of food or service, policies of establishments nor products these establishments carry.

The overwhelming tone of all these emails has been negative with explanations and complaints of why people can not or will not shop locally, it is sad to think our small community is filled with such an abundance of negativity. Does a bad experience at this restaurant, or the wrong sizes at that store have to ruin the local experience? Is it impossible to focus on what CAN be purchased in town? If you don’t like a certain restaurant try a different one, if you have a bad experience at one auto repair place try Mel’s NAPA auto.

You can have a bad shopping, dining, experience anywhere, Chandler, Ahwatukee, Casa Grande but would that sway you from even thinking about going back again? I am just asking you to think local first.

Let’s try it this way:

• Southwest Peddlers not only carries a broad assortment of western wear but also jewelry, home décor, original local art, work boots & jeans
• Ace Hardware not only carries an assortment of every day needs but also small appliances, fresh flowers and holiday trimmings
• fTanning carries a fine assortment of fine ladies handbags and costume jewelry
• Poco Loco carries home furnishings, jewelry, hand made pottery (made by the owners) custom floral & greenery arraignments, custom serving sets & flatware
• Mel’s NAPA Auto has a full service garage and mechanic on duty, as well as tires and tire repair. They also carry hardware (they were the first hardware store in Maricopa)
• Entrees Made Easy can feed a family of 4 for around 13.00. Recently I spend 25.00 to pick up fast food for my family of 3. If you call ahead Entrees will even cook the dinner for you.
• DVD Game Depot carries all the popular game systems for the same price as you would pay elsewhere and if they do not have the game or movie you wish to purchase they will gladly order it for you. As an added convenience you can even go online and order your movie or game ahead of time they will have it ready for you when you arrive.
• Try ASKING a retailer if they would be willing to carry a specific item or size. You may find them willing to special order things for you.

To restate if you can not find an item in town please feel free to contact me and if some place in town carries it more than likely I can help you find it, whatever “it” may be.

The Maricopa Chamber of Commerce is here to support the business and residents of this community in a positive cohesive way. It is not our role to create policies or set business practice standards. We are here to inform, educate and enlighten.