From NewTown Macon: NewTown Macon has partnered with downtown businesses to offer customers a chance to win a $500 shopping spree this holiday season. On Small Business Saturday, November 27, businesses will hide limited edition stickers designed by local artist, Mama Hawk Draws, in their shops for customers to find. Once a customer finds the sticker, they will be entered into a drawing to win $500 in gift cards from downtown businesses.

“Creating unique, fun, and collaborative ways to engage customers is vital to the economic success of our downtown retailers,” said Scott Mitchell, owner of Travis Jean Emporium + The Bohemian Den and member of NewTown’s Main Street board.

NewTown’s Main Street Board developed the concept of the Shop Small Sticker Hunt to encourage Maconites to explore and patronize downtown businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the holiday season. Downtown Macon boasts 44 retailers, 58 restaurants, 8 art galleries, 31 bars and entertainment venues, and 5 historic theaters that are all locally owned and operated. According to a study by Civic Economics, for every $100 spent with a locally owned business, $68 stays in the community. When spending the same at a non-local business like a national chain, only $43 stays in the community.

“Shopping with downtown’s locally owned businesses is a way to make a small investment in Macon-Bibb County and support your fellow neighbors,” said Emily Hopkins, Director of Place at NewTown Macon. “Purchasing a record at your local vinyl shop, a pair of shoes at your neighborhood boutique, or a burger at or your favorite dive helps local dollars stay local.”

Businesses participating in the Shop Small Sticker Hunt are 567 Center for Renewal, 7th Street Salvage Downtown, 7th Street Warehouse, Ambitious Graphics, Bert Maxwell Furniture, Bike Tech Macon, Cherio Liquors, Chic Culture, Comics Plus, Daphne’s 525, Dot’s Forget Me Knots, Frankie’s Boutique, Fresh Produce Records, Global Sole, House of X-Art Gallery, Macon Arts Alliance, Macon Bagels, Ocmulgee Outfitters, Pink Chief Boutique, Travis Jean Emporium + The Bohemian Den, Union Furniture, and Wear.

For more information about the Shop Small Sticker Hunt and to learn about more ways to support local businesses this holiday season, visit NewTown Macon’s Facebook page.