During a challenging time for small businesses, NorthShoreShops.com has been introduced as a virtual shopping center to connect shoppers to small businesses. The Virtual Shopping District model was created to support small businesses on Chicago's North Shore and beyond, and it offers a simple way for shoppers to find and support local businesses.
The platform was inspired by the ease that eCommerce giants offer and it helps local-area merchants build awareness, get new customers and make sales. On the Virtual Shopping District, consumers land on a central website that offers one checkout experience for everything from goods and services to gift cards. As David Kelbaugh, NorthShoreShops.com founder, says "buying locally at-scale shouldn't be so difficult."
Virtual Shopping Districts
This Virtual Shopping Center Helps to Support Small Businesses
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Shopping Districts - The rise of virtual shopping districts presents opportunities for small businesses to connect with customers online and streamline their checkout process.
2. Ecommerce for Small Businesses - Ecommerce platforms that allow small businesses to sell products and services online can help them reach a wider audience and increase sales.
3. Localized Shopping - Localized shopping experiences that connect consumers with small businesses in their community could help boost support for local economies.
Industry Implications
1. Ecommerce - Ecommerce platforms could benefit from developing tools and services specifically tailored to the needs of small businesses.
2. Retail - Retailers could explore partnerships with virtual shopping districts to expand their online presence and reach new customers.
3. Local Economic Development - Organizations focused on supporting local economies could collaborate with virtual shopping districts to promote small businesses and connect them with customers.