FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:  Carson Chandler, (407) 246 - 2822
                Heather Allebaugh, (407) 246 – 3423

Special Discounts Begin Today at Buy Local Orlando Businesses
More than 100 Businesses Join Buy Local Orlando in First Month

May 1, 2009 – Orlando, FL -- Today, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s Buy Local Orlando campaign launched to consumers to encourage economic recovery in the City of Orlando. Beginning today, anyone who utilizes a Buy Local Orlando card will have access to exclusive discounts at more than 100 participating Buy Local Orlando merchants. Buy Local Orlando cards are available for FREE at participating merchants, City Hall, the Downtown Information Center, the Disney Entrepreneur Center or by requesting one online at the website, buylocalorlando.net

The Buy Local Orlando campaign is a pro-active and practical approach for connecting the businesses of Orlando with the buying power of the local community.

By signing up for the Buy Local Orlando card, consumers pledge to support Orlando’s local economy and have access to the following benefits:

• Searchable database of local merchants and businesses at buylocalorlando.net
• Instant savings through merchant discounts or offers
• Periodic emails featuring local events, new merchant members, and special offers and discounts

“When consumers choose to buy locally, those dollars are spent over and over again in the community,” said Mayor Dyer. “Local businesses drive our local economy by creating jobs and opportunities for our residents, purchase goods and services here, circulate money, maintain property values, generate tax revenue and strengthen our economy.”

WHEN & WHERE: On Friday, May 1, 2009, the FREE wallet-sized Buy Local Orlando cards are available at participating merchants, City Hall, Downtown Information Center, the Disney Entrepreneur Center or by requesting one online at the website, buylocalorlando.net.

MERCHANT MEMBERSHIP:
Businesses can still register as a Buy Local Orlando merchant online at buylocalorlando.net for only $49. Merchant membership gives businesses exclusive access to seminars, advertising opportunities and networking events, Buy Local Orlando marketing materials and a listing on the searchable database at buylocalorlando.net.

For more information about the Buy Local Orlando program, visit buylocalorlando.net.

#######