The South Dakota Retailers Association (SDRA) encourages shoppers to “Look to Local” this holiday season. As we enter the “most wonderful time of the year,” retailers are gearing up to make this year’s shopping better than ever before.

“Local shops across South Dakota are opening their doors and welcoming customers,” said SDRA Executive Director Nathan Sanderson. “We encourage shoppers to look within their community for unique, memorable gifting opportunities.”

Ashley Berry of Someone’s in the Kitchen in Rapid City said customers are grateful to be able to shop, and she anticipates a good, steady holiday season. She sees customers focusing on top-quality basics such as cookware and cutlery for gifts as well as for themselves. She believes staying closer to home during the pandemic caused many people to reevaluate their surroundings.

“They are actively seeking items that will be a lifetime product rather than something that is just good enough to get them by for a while,” Berry observed. “They’re fed up with their old curtains and that carpet that they meant to replace a long time ago. They’re all wanting to make their living space something that is functional and quality and somewhere they want to be. And I think the kitchen is the heart of that.”

Caring for their customers and community is what Mom and Pop shops do best. When shoppers support their local communities, business owners, in turn, can support their cities and towns.

“Mom and Pop businesses help define the unique character of our towns,” said Executive Director Nathan Sanderson. “Let’s celebrate and look to these local establishments that genuinely know the wants and needs of shoppers and work hard to create special moments.”

Dick Murphy of Mrs. Murphy’s Irish Gifts in Sioux Falls says 2021 has been a good year.

“People took to heart messages to support their local businesses, not just on Phillips Avenue in Sioux Falls but all across the region,” he said.

He says customers are upbeat and enjoying themselves. And, like Berry, most of his customers are looking for quality gifts.

“People are seeking products that give them that sense that it’s going to last for some time. They want to give a gift that has that quality.”

Bring that same feeling of quality and support to your hometown shops this holiday season. Remember to “Look to Local” and promote the Mom and Pop shops that make our state a great place to live, work, and raise a family.