​Imagine a crisp December night in Temple — streets adorned with twinkling lights; the air filled with festive tunes. In the heart of our community, a local shop buzzes with holiday joy. The bell above the door jingles as customers step into a world of warmth and unique treasures. Each gift chosen becomes a brushstroke in our community's vibrant story, a tale of resilience and unity. This holiday season, as you shop locally, you're not just buying gifts; you're becoming a part of our magical, hometown story.
 
As we approach the holiday season, the significance of Shop Local becomes even more pronounced. Choosing to spend money at local stores and services directly invests in our community, contributing to its growth and prosperity.
 
According to the Small Business Association, when you spend $100 at a local store, approximately $68 stays in the community, compared to $43 when spent at a national chain. Local business owners also create jobs, support families, and contribute more to local causes. Small businesses donate 250 percent more than larger businesses, showcasing their commitment to community support.
 
Beyond economic benefits, shopping local offers personalized service, unique products, and helps maintain the distinctive character of the greater Temple area and small businesses.
 
This holiday season, join the movement to Shop Local! According to the Nerdwallet 2023 Holiday Shopping Report, over a quarter of 2023 holiday shoppers (27%) plan to shop more at local and small businesses to support their community.
 
Holiday sales are a crucial time for retailers, accounting for as much as 30% of their annual sales, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). Projected retail holiday sales for 2023 are expected to increase between 3%-4%, continuing a trend of annual growth since 2009. Despite a slower growth rate compared to recent years, this increase aligns with pre-pandemic levels, with online sales expected to rise between 7%-9%.
 
Consumer behavior post-COVID-19 continues to shift, emphasizing the importance of supporting local stores. Individual spending is projected to be slightly higher this year, with an expected consumer average of $875 on holiday gifts, décor, and other items, according to NRF’s latest holiday survey.
 
Shopping is not just about the thrill of discovery; it's an investment in our community.
 
Let the joy of shopping become a collective celebration of our community's spirit and uniqueness this holiday season and beyond. Discover the hidden gems for shopping, enjoyment, and exploration in the greater Temple area by exploring the Temple Chamber's online Business Directory at bit.ly/ThinkTempleFirst.

​As Veterans Day approaches, the Temple Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight the invaluable contributions of veteran-owned businesses in our community. These enterprises stand as a testament to the dedication and commitment of our nation's heroes, significantly enriching our local economy and job market.
 
Within our Chamber of Commerce, we have 46 veteran-owned businesses as members, each offering diverse goods and services to our community. From mouthwatering barbecue, craft beer, and chimney cleaning to martial arts, voice and piano lessons, and elegant wedding dresses, these local veteran entrepreneurs have transformed their military discipline and determination into successful ventures, leaving a lasting impact on our local economy.
 
These businesses not only provide essential goods and services but also create employment opportunities for both fellow veterans and civilians. Additionally, they actively participate in charitable initiatives, supporting veterans’ organizations, educational programs, and local community events. Their unwavering dedication to making a positive impact mirrors their sense of duty, both in business and within our community.
 
By supporting and celebrating these ventures, we not only honor their service to our country but also express our deep gratitude. Veterans Day and every day, it is crucial to recognize and support the men and women who have served in our armed forces and continue to serve our community through their entrepreneurial spirit. As a Chamber of Commerce, we take immense pride in saluting these remarkable individuals and their businesses, showcasing our heartfelt appreciation for their contributions to our community's growth and prosperity.

​In an era where small businesses serve as the backbone of local economies, fostering their growth and sustainability becomes paramount. With this goal in mind, the Temple Chamber proudly presents the upcoming Small Business Connect Seminar, a remarkable initiative aimed at bolstering resources and opportunities for local enterprises. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, September 12, 2023, as the Hilton Garden Inn opens its doors to host an event that promises to equip small business owners with invaluable insights.
 
Small Business Connect stands as a testament to the Temple Chamber's commitment to nurturing small businesses. As part of this flagship initiative, the chamber orchestrates quarterly seminars featuring subject matter experts, offering comprehensive training to empower entrepreneurs. These sessions encapsulate the essence of collaboration and growth, bringing together business owners, experts, and supporters under one roof.
 
The upcoming seminar slated for September 12, titled "Shoplifting Prevention 101: Strengthening Your Small Business," is a timely and essential topic in the retail landscape. This enlightening session will feature an ensemble of experts from the Texas Retail Association, seasoned law enforcement personnel, and security professionals. Their collective wisdom will unravel the latest trends in shoplifting, arming attendees with indispensable knowledge and practical strategies to safeguard their merchandise and bolster their profits.
 
The seminar promises an engaging exploration of strategies to deter theft, enhance security measures, and cultivate a shopping environment that encourages trust and loyalty. In a world where the dynamics of theft are ever evolving, arming small business owners with up-to-date insights is not just an investment in their individual success, but also a contribution to the overall vitality of the local business ecosystem.
 
Small Business Connect's remarkable impact wouldn't be possible without the unwavering support of its partners. Meta, Extraco Banks, Ludwick Montgomery & Stapp, McLane Intelligent Solutions, and the Hilton Garden Inn have all rallied behind this initiative, recognizing its potential to ignite growth and foster resilience within the local business community. Their commitment underscores the notion that when stakeholders from various sectors unite for a common cause, the results are nothing short of transformative.
 
Participation in the Small Business Connect Seminar is an opportunity that no entrepreneur should miss. Visit the Temple Chamber website, www.templechamber.com to register today.