Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/834279
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 21 J U N E 1 2 , 2 0 1 7 F O C U S S M A L L B U S I N E S S To promote the small-business community, the chamber produces an annual Insider's Guide. Freeport USA markets local businesses through print, web and information stations, and by reach- ing out to tour operators. Still, various parties say, there's more messag- ing to be done to increase foot traffi c to the small shops. Ideas in the air include creating a device- driven wayfi nding app to complement existing apps; promoting Freeport's arts and cultural segment; and increasing the customer base by promoting Freeport as meeting and destination. McBride notes that small businesses are also tak- ing cues from L.L.Bean's "experiential" off erings of events and educational opportunities. "It's expanded beyond outlet shopping and become a place where it's an experience to visit their campus," he says of the retail giant. "And a lot of smaller shops are making their shops experiential. For example, Fio re [selling olive oils and vinegars] has tastings, and that's a great sales technique for them. at's the model everything seems to be mov- ing toward. e experiential aspect can play a role in getting people down the streets." Good will can help, too, says Connor. "We're often giving people directions to other little shops and restaurants that are off Main Street, trying to help each other that way," she says. "But it would be great to have more of a sys- tematic approach." L S, Mainebiz staff writer, can be reached at @ . and @MREI SMALL BUSINESSES ACROSS THE STATE ARE SAVING ON LIGHTING COSTS BY SWITCHING TO LEDS. EFFICIENCYMAINE.COM 866-376-2463 "Saving approximately $2,000 a year on lighting costs is a big deal for a small business like ours." Jayne Hamaty, Co-owner MAINE STREET GRAPHICS, BRIDGTON CONTACT US TO LEARN HOW TO - Save on lighting costs - Achieve better quality of light - Enhance customer experience P H O T O / T I M G R E E N WAY Cari Karonis, co-owner of Skordo, arranges herbs and spices in her store in Freeport. Prior to opening the store, she was a retail consultant.