Downtown businesses enjoyed a brisk flow of traffic on Saturday during the sixth annual Customer Appreciation Day in the core.
“We had an amazing fun-filled day,” said Val Semeniuk of Kootenai Moon Furniture. “I was happy to show my appreciation to our customers by offering a very attractive discount, treats and entertainment.”
More than 50 downtown businesses offered specials and events geared at attracting area residents to the shopping district. The Saturday push was a response to the American Thanksgiving shopping furor that takes place every late-November.
Semeniuk said it worked.
“Particularly when we make it an event/party downtown, a festive atmosphere,” she said. “I brought in special and more products for this day, knowing what our customers are looking for.”
Semeniuk said it was a great way to set the tone for the next few weeks of Christmas shopping and she hopes the seventh annual day next December is even bigger.
“Every year, more businesses join in and I would encourage more businesses to follow suit, so we can make it a real shop local day, feature our best products or bring in something special for the season,” said Semeniuk.
“Customer appreciation is about community. It provides an opportunity for our shop owners and staff to see their friends and neighbours, and a great day for fundraising as well.
“Perhaps we could have more musicians on the street or elves going from shop to shop to add some fun. It is a great kick-off to Christmas in Nelson, I love it.”