Shop Sooke First Toolkit
The Sooke Chamber of Commerce and the District of Sooke are teaming up to launch Shop Sooke First, a community-driven campaign encouraging residents to choose local. Every dollar spent at a Sooke business supports jobs, strengthens the economy, and fosters a thriving, connected community.
“When we shop local, we’re not just making a purchase—we’re making an impact. Every sale keeps money in Sooke, helps create jobs, and supports the businesses that give back to our community. This campaign is about celebrating the businesses that make Sooke special and ensuring they continue to grow.” – Deb Schenk, Executive Director of the Sooke Chamber of Commerce
“This campaign is about more than just shopping—it’s about community. When we choose Sooke businesses first, we’re investing in our neighbours, our families, and our local economy. Whether it’s a coffee from your favourite café, a gift from a local artisan, or a service from a trusted professional, every choice to shop local helps keep Sooke strong.” – Mayor of Sooke, Maja Tait
Let’s #ShopSookeFirst!
- Support Local, Celebrate Sooke! Every dollar spent locally stays within the community, helping businesses thrive, supporting local jobs, and strengthening the connections that make Sooke special.
- The Heart of Sooke is in Our Local Shops! When you shop at local stores, dine at local restaurants, and use local services, you contribute to a vibrant and resilient economy.
- Gifts with Meaning, Purchases with Purpose! Shopping local means finding unique, high-quality products while knowing your purchase supports friends, neighbours, and community programs.
- Your Choices Matter! Transactions at a local business helps fund community events, youth sports, charities, and initiatives that make Sooke a great place to live.
How Businesses Can Participate
1. Display “Shop Sooke First” Signage and Campaign Materials
- Pick up free posters at the Sooke Chamber of Commerce Office or the District of Sooke Municipal Hall.
- Digital copies are available for download on the Chamber website and District of Sooke website.
- Use the official Shop Sooke First hashtag (#ShopSookeFirst) on social media to increase visibility.
- Incorporate the campaign visuals into your own advertising and newsletters.
2. Offer a Special Promotion or Discount
Encourage local spending by providing:
- A limited-time Shop Sooke deal (e.g., “Spend $50 and get a $5 gift card for your next visit!”).
- A loyalty reward for repeat customers who shop local multiple times.
- A special local holiday offer – check out the Sooke Chamber’s Year of Local Monthly Campaigns for inspiration
- Chamber members can tag the Sooke Chamber of Commerce in posts so they can help amplify their promotions.
3. Highlight Local Suppliers, Artisans & Community Partnerships
- Showcase the local businesses, artists, or food producers you source from—let customers know how much local collaboration happens behind the scenes!
- Share your story! Let us know by completing this brief questionnaire. Community stories will be:
- Featured on the Sooke Chamber website and District of Sooke website.
- Included in electronic newsletters to residents.
- Shared with the local newspaper to increase visibility.
4. Share Customer Stories & Testimonials
- Ask customers for a quick photo or testimonial (with their permission) and share it on your social media. Example:
- “Thanks for stopping by, Sarah! Supporting local businesses keeps Sooke’s economy strong. #ShopSookeFirst”
- Collect short customer quotes to display in your shop or post on your website/social media.
- Run a customer appreciation giveaway:
- Offer a prize for customers who share their favourite Sooke shopping experience using the #ShopSookeFirst hashtag.
5. Thank Customers & Celebrate Their Role in the Community
- Small actions make a big impact:
- Say a heartfelt “Thank you for shopping local!”
- Offer a loyalty card punch or a small freebie for repeat shoppers.
- Feature a “Customer of the Month” on social media.
Digital & Print Assets:
Available Formats:
