For Concord’s brick-and-mortar retailers, December is a make-or-break month. Holiday sales often determine whether they end their fiscal year in the black or in the red. This year more than ever, in the wake of a spring lockdown and a summer of uncertainty, the amount of business our merchants do prior to Christmas may be a matter of retail life or death.
Every holiday season, I try to do as much of my gift-buying as possible at local stores. They are run by and employ my friends and neighbors. Most of the dollars I spend there stay in the local economy, multiplying their economic impact in the area. I always find unique and high-quality presents right here in our Concord community.
This year, I’m doing my shopping early to give local businesses the best boost that I can (and to enjoy the week or two before Christmas savoring the season, rather than scrambling for last-minute gifts). Please join me, and support our local merchants. Wear a mask to protect their salespeople, fellow shoppers, and yourself. And bask in the satisfaction of keeping our business community vibrant.
Merry Christmas!
BYRON CHAMPLIN
Concord