JEDCO, Jefferson Parish business organizations launch Spend Local initiative

(AVONDALE, La) — 73% of businesses in Jefferson Parish employ 10 people or less.  Small enterprises make up 53% of the Jefferson Parish workforce and account for $4.39B in annual payroll. The Jefferson Parish economy runs on small local businesses.  Right now, small businesses – and their employees – are experiencing the impact of COVID-19 on a large scale.

The Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO), in partnership with Jefferson Parish, the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, and regional business organizations, is pleased to launch a new initiative to support local businesses in the wake of COVID-19. Spend Local JP aims to raise awareness about the positive and far-reaching impacts of championing Jefferson Parish businesses.

To help these businesses maintain profitability and keep their employees working, JEDCO joined forces with a coalition of local business organizations to develop a coordinated brand and multi-tiered marketing strategy to lift small local business up in the face of these challenging times. The campaign features a vibrant logo, colorful graphics and actionable messaging. It will span traditional and digital advertising platforms while also providing opportunities for community engagement on social media and beyond.

The Spend Local JP campaign reminds residents that when they spend their money in local businesses, they’re not only investing in a Jefferson Parish brand they love, they’re investing in their community. For every dollar spent in a local business, approximately 67 cents stays in the community to fund schools, infrastructure and essential government services.  Choosing to spend locally can keep food on the table for friends, family members and neighbors while also improving the quality of life in Jefferson. All of this will work together to ensure that the Jefferson Parish economy and community come back stronger after the pandemic.

“Local businesses are the backbone of the Jefferson Parish economy,” said JEDCO President & CEO Jerry Bologna. “For years, our local businesses have supported Jefferson Parish. Now, those same businesses need our help. This campaign encourages our residents to spend their dollars locally to support their favorite brands and to elevate the quality of life where they live. By supporting a local Jefferson Parish business, you are supporting our community comeback.”

“The Spend Local JP Campaign is built on the power of community togetherness,” said Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng. “Our Jefferson Parish businesses and residents are resilient and compassionate. In the face of challenging times, this community has always come together to do what is best for one another. This simple act of choosing to spend your money locally will have long term benefits for the small businesses you are supporting and the entire area.”

“The local businesses in Jefferson Parish span a diverse range of industries, from restaurants and retailers to hospitality and professional services and everything in between,” said Todd Murphy, Jefferson Chamber of Commerce President. “We urge you to eat local, shop local, stay local and support local to give our Jefferson Parish businesses the best opportunities for resurgence and growth in the aftermath of COVID-19. Your support will preserve jobs and keep doors open during uncertain times.”

The Spend Local JP Campaign is supported by the following organizations and businesses: JEDCO, Jefferson Parish, Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson Business Council, Jefferson Parish Schools, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau, New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana, Metairie Business Development District, Elmwood Business Association, Westbank Business & Industry Association, Deep Fried Advertising, Outfront Media, Clearview City Center and Lakeside Shopping Center.

Learn more at www.JEDCO.org/spendlocal.