Best Retail Practices Workshop Returns to Somerville

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) Monica Lamboy announce the return of the City's Best Retail Practices program, designed to assist small business and restaurant owners, and to provide storefront improvement support by providing professional advice and grant money in the areas of store and restaurant design, window and merchandise displays, signage, and cost-effective marketing tips. The three-part program will begin on Thursday, February 25th from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Somerville City Hall, and will include visual presentations by the City and GraberMarketing.

Twelve of the participating businesses will be given the chance to apply for phases two and three of the program, which include a free, in-store consultation with improvement recommendation reports, as well as a grant of up to $2,000 for the twelve selected businesses to help implement those improvements.

"This program was a great success last year, and we're extremely excited to continue with Best Retail Practices, and the tremendous opportunities it offers to our local businesses," Mayor Curtatone said. "Especially in this economic climate, it's important that we support our business base, and programs like Best Retail Practices not only assist those businesses, but help increase our tax base as well as preserve the character and unique assets of our community."

The program is a partnership between the City of Somerville and GraberMarketing, with presentations offered by Christine Moynihan, of GraberMarketing. Ms. Moynihan co-founded the program in 2002, and has conducted it in Cambridge, Lowell and Lawrence, and in Nashua, NH, providing guidance and assistance to over 200 urban retailers.

While all are invited, seating is limited and registration is recommended. Attendance at the workshop by a principal of the business is a pre-requisite for the $2,000 grants. For more information or to register for the Best Retail Practices workshop, please contact Economic Development Specialist David Guzman at 617-625-6600 ext 2546.