GO LOCAL alliance marks 6th anniversary

GO LOCAL, the Rohnert Park-based economic development alliance, is celebrating its sixth anniversary with 375 members from business, nonprofits and government agencies.

The group produces the small circular window icons that proclaim not only “go local,” but “bank local,” “bike local” and “made local.”

Its founding members from November 2008 include Clover Stornetta Farms, Exchange Bank, Friedman’s Home Improvement, Redwood Credit Union, Oliver’s Markets, Community Market, Summit State Bank and Traditional Medicinals.

Last year GO LOCAL launched Made Local Magazine to connect consumers with local farmers, manufacturers and others involved in local foods.

The group estimates that its GO LOCAL rewards card loyalty program this year will generate $6 million in sales.

“As an economic development principle, buying from locally-owned businesses produces a direct dividend due to the money spent circulating through more cycles of buying and selling,” said GO LOCAL’s co-director Terry Garrett.