MIDDLETOWN, Ohio — A new loyalty program started by Downtown Middletown Inc. hopes to help small businesses in the city and reward loyal customers.
The Sip, Bite and Buy program launched recently after small businesses in Middletown felt the sting of the pandemic.
"We've not really had any sales or customers in the last three weeks," said Andrea Booth, owner of thrift and vintage store, Annie Up, on Central Avenue. "It's not been the best, but I guess it's going."
Booth's shop is one of 40 businesses that are part of the program.
Patrons participating in the program get a loyalty card from any of the 40 participating businesses, and each time a customer spends at least $10 at one of the businesses, they get a stamp. Once a customer gets 10 stamps, they return their card and are entered into a monthly drawing for a gift card.
"I think it's an awesome program," said Faith Eller, district manager of Don's Pizza, also located on Central Avenue. "I think once people hear about it they'll definitely come to town and try it out."
