On Tuesday March 23rd the Pelham Business Association is hosting a marketing workshop to examine the question "Shop Local-What’s Next? How can the PBA work with the community to improve marketing support for local businesses". The key objectives of the working session is to build on the success of last year's Pelham Think Local campaign and solicit consumer support for local business during the upcoming construction phase of the Community Improvement Plan (CIP).

The business community is very concerned about the potential business disruption and revenue loss that local retailers may experience if consumers do not make a concerted effort to continue to shop locally even though it will be a bit more inconvenient for them in the short term.

The PBA has retained the services of a professional marketing consultant, Nancy Helstab, owner of BrandEdge, to lead the discussions. BrandEdge,is a Toronto-based strategic marketing consulting group that works with innovative businesses and non-profits looking to ramp-up and accelerate business growth.

The workshop is also a “coming home” for Nancy who was born and raised in Pelham. She attended St. Alexander’s School and Notre Dame and was very active Pelham Panther basketball player for many years. Her parents still continue to reside in Fonthill.

We encourage anyone concerned about Town promotion and the long-term success of our small business sector to come out and participate. Our Town enjoys many vibrant community connections- the Fonthill Bandshell, Farmer’s Market, Veteran’s Park, Canada Day celebrations, Fenwick Lions carnival, Pelham Art Show – let’s work together to also support our commercial base.

The Legion has already come forward to show their support by providing complimentary use of their auditorium for the workshop. The session starts at 6pm and is scheduled to wrap up by 9pm. The event is free for members of the Pelham Business Association. There is an admission charge of $20 for Non-Members. Attendees are asked to RSVP to contact@exnihilodesigns.com