“If each of us spent $100 a year more on local businesses instead of chain stores, it would put an extra $3 million into our economy … ” says the chalk-written signboard on the Denville sidewalk, imploring consumers to stay local.
It’s true. And nothing helps a community prosper like a hearty retail center.
But while it’s the goal of every small town, it’s not easy to achieve — especially when, like Denville, the town square is not built around a commuter train stop or its main street doesn’t serve as the primary thoroughfare for local traffic.
NJBIZ took a look at a few bedroom communities that are surviving and thriving — and doing so by different means.
How do they do it?
SMALL-TOWN RETAIL SUCCESS STORIES: In Denville, town rallied behind recovery from flood
SMALL-TOWN RETAIL SUCCESS STORIES: In Collingswood, close proximity to big cities is big key
SMALL-TOWN RETAIL SUCCESS STORIES: In Lambertville, event audiences built street traffic
SMALL-TOWN RETAIL SUCCESS STORIES: If you want to make your Main Street your town’s main attraction
