A new program is giving Utah residents a reason to shop and eat out while supporting local businesses.
Dee Brewer, executive director of Downtown Alliance, told KSL, "It's a challenging time for everyone. Downtown businesses have been hit especially hard. There is no doubt this holiday season will be challenging."
Cameron Duenas, a waiter at Taqueria 27, said, "It's (definitely) a lot slower. a lot slower. Kind of feels like it's sapping the life out of downtown."
The program works by letting Utah residents buy "Downtown Dollars" online. This is a digital gift card on your phone that can be used to shop at dozens of participating locations, including shops and diners.
When users buy a certain amount, they will get additional dollars called "bonus bucks."
Brewer said, "For example, when you buy $75 in Downtown Dollars, you automatically receive $25 in Bonus Bucks. You can spend that $100 at any of the participating businesses."
Brewer stated that the program is a call to action to help businesses in need.
"I think the call to action for everybody who loves Salt Lake City is to spend your holiday dollars with a local retailer. Spend them downtown. Spend them with businesses you want to see here next year."
Photo: Getty Images
Source: KSL