Buy Local Now!

Our move over Teton Pass from Jackson, WY to Victor, ID proved to be a success this past summer. We have learned a ton about this new location and we are really excited about the future for our shop, this industry, and our amazing local community. Over the past couple of months we have gathered with our staff to discuss the Fitzgerald’s Brand and what the future means to us. These conversations have led us in many directions but the few constants that we are all in agreement is our commitment to supporting LOCAL business, sustainable business practices, and the importance of the cycling industries commitment to MAP (Manufacturer’s Advertised Pricing).

Many people feel that the local retailer will never be able to compete against the Amazons and Bings of the world, but we disagree. With support from brands in this industry the IBD (Independent Bicycle Dealer) can certainly do it. If you are not familiar with the BUY LOCAL NOW program that Smartetailing has launched here is your opportunity to see what’s happening.

“Buy Local Now is a game-changing product-location service that leverages the combined strengths of specialty channel brands and retailers to win consumers away from large online operations and national chains. It lets specialty brands and retailers work together to ensure a profitable and sustainable future serving consumers within their local communities.” - Click here to learn more

As we move into the time of year when Preseasons and program orders are due, we have created a metric that includes a number of criteria to help us decide who we want to team up with in the future. We want to align ourselves with vendors/people we believe can truly serve the best interests of the IBD and the future of the bicycle industry. We also want to support brands that really champion the successes of local business as well the consumer experience.

What does Buy Local Now mean to you?

2 Responses to “Buy Local Now!”

1. Dale Sharkey says:

   October 27, 2012 at 9:01 am

   It means buying things from PEOPLE I trust. People who I want to see in my community. If I want to see them in my community it is my responsibilty to help provide jobs for them. I choose to shop from local merchants who do good things for our community and provide things which are either needed or created in the most sustainable manner possible. I want our community to be full of people who can make a living wage. I really believe if I want that to happen, I have to shop local! Sometimes it even means paying a bit more. I would rather know the business I am supporting is taking good care of their employees and improving quaility of life than save a bit and never see the good things those extra couple of bucks did.
2. Fitzy says:

   October 29, 2012 at 3:07 pm

   Wow Dale! Thanks for those awesome words. I feel exactly the same but have had a hard time finding the right way to say it. You nailed it!