New website promotes buying local with member discounts

By Reader Staff

A new online community co-op is aiming to bring together locally owned businesses and residents — a goal more important now than ever, as Sandpoint enters its fall shoulder season and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect economies around the country.

Hosted at sandpointbuylocal.com, the site “is not meant to be focused on the lowest discounts. Rather, its purpose is to recognize and learn about each locally owned business and how they contribute to our community and grow our economy.” 

Participating businesses and individuals — who join the site via an annual membership fee — get access to monthly discounts from area retailers, restaurants and services. Businesses also receive a profile where they can share their story and offer discounts of their own to other members. Reviews and suggestions are also posted on the site, as well.

Business members are categorized under local food and flare; retail; beauty, health and fitness; local services; and local crafts. 

Sandpoint Buy Local organizers said they are working on a mobile app to launch in 2021 as participating members grow.