Salomon, Baffin, SPY, ENDVR.io, and many more in the retail industry have come together to support independent sporting goods retailers through a not-for-profit initiative, The Shop Local Project. The collaboration aims to help local retailers weather this storm by providing an online platform to sell discounted gift cards, giving consumers a simple and direct way to support their favorite stores that may not have a well-developed online storefront.

“ENDVR has always been focused on building community – bringing together brands, stores, and frontline employees together to help drive sales on the store floor.  The Shop Local Project is a great opportunity to build an even bigger community by giving consumers the chance to support their favourite local stores during these tough times, so that these businesses can continue to grow in the future.” Steve Gendron, Co-CEO at ENDVR.io

Through the Shop Local Project, retailers receive the proceeds from the sales daily, helping to keep stores afloat now so they continue to serve you in the future.

“At Salomon we continue to explore ways that we can support those affected by the crisis, including our local specialty retailers. TSLP is making it easy for consumers to shop local from the comfort of their home, support their local gear shop today and buy that new product to reach the mountain tops or the city streets when the time is right,” added Virginie Murdison, senior marketing manager from Salomon Canada.

The Shop Local Project members share the common belief that the resilience of retail during this time requires a coordinated effort to support all stakeholders. The stated goal for the future is to see a vibrant, thriving retail network ready to serve their community.

The Shop Local Project is focused on the lifeblood of our industry— the local stores and retail staff working directly with customers.

“Board Retailers Association endorses this worthwhile initiative.  It is a great way to help all specialty retailers including those who are about to reopen or have already reopened to increase much needed cash flow immediately by incentivizing customers to purchase discounted Shop Gift Cards now before they are ready to actually step foot in the store. We like the way that this program is designed and feel good about backing it,” says BRA executive director Doug Works

There is no cost for brands or retailers who participate in this initiative. Rather, it is an opportunity for brands to support their retail partners by using their marketing muscle to draw attention to local retailers, giving consumers the opportunity to lend support through their purchasing power.

As Mark Hubner, vice president of brand & strategy at Baffin Footwear, explained, “The Shop Local Project is a shining example of how we rally together in times of crisis. When the team at ENDVR shared this idea, Baffin didn’t think twice about jumping in to help out.  It’s a refreshing opportunity to help your community, while maintaining safe-physical distance in a time when it can be challenging to do so.”

If you’re a brand or retailer who wants to get involved, check out #TheShopLocalProject or learn more at TheShopLocalProject.com