Shoppers Encouraged to Buy Products Made on the Iron Range
EVELETH - Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) Commissioner Tony Sertich held a news conference Monday to promote the importance of buying local and to remind shoppers to visit the Made on the Range website for their holiday shopping. "Remember to think locally when completing your holiday shopping," said Sertich. "It greatly benefits the entire regional economy, by creating jobs and economic growth."
Specifically, for each dollar that is spent on locally purchased items at independent businesses, 68 cents of it remains in the local and state economy.
Sertich also provided an update on the Made on the Range website, which features product and contact information for 336 area businesses that produce, manufacture and sell products in northeastern Minnesota.
Product categories include arts, bath and beauty, books, clothing, food and beverage, home décor, industrial, jewelry, photography and wood products.
There also is a separate section for local service providers.
The website was developed in-house at the IRRRB last fall and is offered as a free service to participating businesses.
By launching the website, the agency hoped to market and advertise local businesses and products, create awareness for shoppers within and outside the region, and stimulate the local economy.
The website has surpassed original expectations with over 50,500 visits to date.
Sertich said, "I encourage you to make madeontherange.com your first stop for holiday shopping. You will find a wide array of quality products that are sure to suit everyone on your shopping list."
To be included in the Made on the Range website, visit www.madeontherange.com and click on "Add Your Business." Please contact Alison Perry at Alison.Perry@state.mn.us or 218-735-3030 with any questions.
IRRRB is a state economic development agency headquartered in northeastern Minnesota whose mission is to promote and invest in business, community and workforce development for the betterment of the northeastern Minnesota.
