Retailers Promote a Local Online Shopping Initiative in Michigan

## Michigan’s December Shopping Frenzy

Ah, December in Michigan—a time when the chill in the air is matched only by the heat of your credit card. It’s that magical season where Michiganders swap stories about Cyber Monday sales while sipping on their locally brewed hot cocoa. But hang on, why should Amazon have all the fun? Michigan retailers are ready to jazz up your holiday shopping experience with a local twist.

### Michigan-Based E-Commerce Is On the Rise

With the holiday buzz around, the Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) decided it was the perfect moment to drop a little gift of their own. They’ve compiled a list of members featuring Michigan-based e-commerce platforms, and they’re encouraging you to make these your go-to sites this season. For a little extra cheer, check out this https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiiAFBVV95cUxNVkU4Q00xcU5idUd4SmNiNzNRaDM0NUZ1SGhPbkoxcjRLOEpxMmZKZ1BrcGl4VV9nblhCcVd4Nnh0YlBJeldTM3M4SlNveUFKSGROQURBSFpWRWoyTG1NMHlHMGVSazF1N0NnZDc4QVlWaHdMQzh3SVVxaUNkQXpxdDRkVVpvVURE?oc=5(https://www.whmi.com/news/photo/zoom/46801/a.jpg) to explore your homegrown options.

> “Small businesses do a lot for our communities throughout the year,” says Vic Veda, MRA’s VP of Communications. Supporting them isn’t just about gift-giving; it’s about giving back to the community.

### Boosting Local Economy, One Click at a Time

Let’s dive deeper than a snowdrift, shall we? Turns out, in 2023 alone, Michiganders spent a whopping $36.5 billion in out-of-state e-commerce. Now, if just 10% of that moolah had stayed close to home, we could be looking at an infusion of 15,367 new jobs and over $690 million added to Michigan’s labor income. Who wouldn’t want a piece of that pie?

| Year | Out-of-state e-commerce spending | Potential Michigan job creation | Potential increase in labor income |
|——|———————————-|———————————-|————————————-|
| 2023 | $36.5 billion | 15,367 | $690 million |

### Michigan’s Retailers Are Keeping an Untiring Spirit

As we head into the heart of the holiday shopping madness, Michigan’s retailers are remaining optimistic. According to MRA’s latest Retail Index, 53% are forecasting a happy rise in sales, not just through the holidays but till January 2025. That’s a lot of optimism sprinkled on your Christmas cookies!

Michigan retailers are more than numbers, though—they’re your neighbors. Those familiar smiles behind counters and quick how-ya-doings in line are not just good customer service; they’re the backbone of your community.

### Why Shop Local?

Here’s a quick rundown on why keeping it local is cooler than the other side of your pillow:

– **Community Support**: Buying local means supporting schools, roads, and local services.
– **Unique Finds**: Get gifts that have stories behind them.
– **Environmentally Friendly**: Reduced carbon footprint—no need for international shipping.
– **Economic Boost**: Every dollar spent locally creates twice as much income for the local economy.

So next time you’re filling up your virtual shopping cart, maybe skip that ‘international shipping fee’ and score something from just around the corner. And remember, this season, it’s not just about shopping local; it’s about living local!