ShopLocalKirkland.com Creates a Digital Main Street

Published on November 12, 2020

Media Contact:
Joy Johnston
Interim Communications Program Manager
jjohnston@kirklandwa.gov
(425) 979-6562

KIRKLAND, Wash. – A new digital marketplace now makes it possible to find and purchase the unique goods, gifts, food and services that Kirkland businesses offer, many with contactless pickup and delivery options. From clothing and décor to restaurants and wine to business, health and wellness services, ShopLocalKirkland.com offers a fast, easy way to make purchases, and support Kirkland businesses in the process.

“We are thrilled to provide this platform to connect Kirkland businesses to consumers and promote the exceptional goods and services that Kirkland businesses offer to shoppers” said Kirkland Mayor Penny Sweet “We are fortunate to have incredible businesses in Kirkland, and ShopLocalKirkland.com makes it safe and convenient to buy from businesses we know and trust. I signed our own retail business up and am looking forward to the results.”

The Shop Local Kirkland initiative responds to the economic impacts of COVID-19 on Kirkland’s business community and is designed to help local businesses survive and thrive through WA State’s Safe Start Plan and beyond. Small businesses are the backbone of the US economy, contributing about 50 percent of GDP. The vast majority of businesses in Kirkland are classified as small businesses.

Since the onset of COVID-19 in March 2020, restrictions imposed by local, state and federal governments have presented severe economic hardship for businesses that depend on in-person customer experiences. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable -- the average small business has only enough cash in reserve to remain open for 27 days and have suffered dramatic declines in revenue. The Shop Local Kirkland initiative endeavors to assist Kirkland businesses with recovery as well as help them take vital steps toward digital transformation so they can reach and transact with customers in the future.

“Current data shows that more than 80% of consumers purchase online, however not every small business has an online presence,” said Samantha St. John, CEO of the Greater Kirkland Chamber of Commerce. “The Shop Local Kirkland initiative and the Shop Local Kirkland website aim to create a ‘safety-net economy’ designed to help small businesses weather disruption and downturns, build e-commerce capacity, and survive and thrive in a digital as well as physical marketplace.”

To peruse and purchase unique and trusted goods and services offered by Kirkland-based businesses, go to www.shoplocalkirkland.com.

Have a business and want to join? Registration is free and open to all Kirkland-based businesses, including home businesses and not-for-profits. Register your business at www.shoplocalkirkland.com. Questions? Need help? Please email shoplocalkirkland@kirklandwa.gov.

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