Main Street Beaufort Dollars

Nominated by Main Street Beaufort, USA

Main Street Beaufort Dollars was a big economic shot in the arm for downtown Beaufort merchants during a normally slow time of year. It also gave shoppers the chance to rediscover downtown Beaufort.

In February 2012, Main Street Beaufort, USA sold $15,000 worth of "Beaufort Dollars" to the public at half price. Shoppers could use the Dollars at more than 50 participating downtown merchants. The supply sold out in 18 minutes to the nearly 200 community members who stood in line hours before the sale began.

Once purchased, the tickets were good for six weeks. Merchants turned in receipts from "dollar purchases" to be reimbursed for the full-face value. Main Street Beaufort, USA used funds from their marketing budget to help fund the promotion.

Participating businesses also enjoyed the added publicity of being featured on flyers and posters promoting the event. A local newspaper also offered discounted ad space to the merchants.

The Main Street Beaufort Dollars promotion was so successful; it was repeated in August with similar results.

Contact: LaNelle Fabian at director@downtownbeaufort.com or 843.525.6644