Holiday magic meets local impact: How the Open Rewards buy local app drives year-round success

For economic development organizations, supporting local businesses is a year-round mission—but the holiday season presents a unique opportunity. It’s when foot traffic surges, shopping lists grow, and communities are most engaged. The challenge? Making sure those dollars stay local.

That’s where Open Rewards comes in. This buy local app helps cities and counties turn everyday purchases into powerful local impact. And as our 2024 data shows, it’s not just working—it’s thriving.

36,000+ holiday purchases—and counting

During November and December 2024, shoppers made 36,383 rewards-eligible purchases through Open Rewards across 40 communities in the U.S. and Canada. That’s a 79% increase in purchases compared to the previous monthly average—demonstrating just how effective targeted holiday promotions can be.

Shoppers spent more, returned more often and engaged more deeply:

• 77% of users made 2+ purchases

• 30% made 10+ purchases

• Users spent 55% more and made 80% more purchases compared to 2023

It’s clear that with the right incentives in place, local shoppers are ready and eager to support their communities.

“Not just about holiday sales…”

One of the key success stories came from Alexandria, VA, where the city runs a year-round program, but made a large push to target holiday shoppers.

“It was amazing to see how the Open Rewards program not only supports small businesses but also encourages shoppers to keep their dollars in Alexandria. This holiday season, the community earned 5% back on all their purchases locally, putting $3,170 in rewards wallets and redeemed $2,600, proving that when we shop locally, everyone benefits. It’s not just about holiday sales; it’s about building long-term habits that strengthen our local economy.” Talia Jones, Small Business Client Services Coordinator, Alexandria Economic Development Partnership

Alexandria’s program demonstrates that Open Rewards is more than just a seasonal boost—it’s a tool for reshaping consumer behavior and building lasting local loyalty.

Doubling the reward in Englewood, CO

Some communities used the holidays as a moment to amplify their incentives—like Englewood, CO, which temporarily doubled their rewards rate to 10%.

“During the 2024 holiday season, the City of Englewood doubled the reward for shopping local! Through its EARN (Explore and Reward Network) app, shoppers received 10% back—up from 5%—when they supported Englewood businesses. The promotion was a huge success, resulting in increased rewards for shoppers and boosted sales for local merchants.” Nancy Fenton, Department Administrator, Englewood, CO

The result? More rewards, more sales and more local engagement—all with zero extra work for businesses.

A buy local app built for community impact

In 2024, Open Rewards generated $1.95 million in total economic impact—proof that small incentives can create big change when they’re easy to use and community-wide. And it’s not just numbers on a dashboard—85% of users say Open Rewards positively influenced their decision to shop local.

From first-time restaurant visits to hidden gem discoveries, users continuously shared their enthusiasm:

“I only learned about this restaurant because of the app. Having the rewards gave me more incentive to try it for the first time.”

“Thank you East Aldine for bringing this app... it is very important for our community.”

“This app is a must-have... it helps when I want to treat my family to takeout or shopping.”

Looking ahead

The success of 2024’s holiday campaigns shows that Open Rewards isn’t just effective—it’s adaptable. Communities can increase incentives, run seasonal promotions or launch targeted campaigns—all while keeping participation easy for both shoppers and merchants.

If you’re planning your next shop local initiative—and looking for an innovative buy local app—Open Rewards offers a modern, measurable path forward.