Shop local: How holiday shopping strengthens Redlands
This holiday season, shopping local means more than finding unique gifts—it’s about supporting the businesses and city services that keep Redlands thriving. Plus, enter our Shop Local Holiday Giveaway for a chance to win prizes from local favorites!
As the holiday season approaches, Redlands residents are encouraged to shop local, supporting the businesses that make our community unique.
With a vibrant mix of independent retailers, restaurants, artisans and entertainers, the city offers countless opportunities to find one-of-a-kind gifts and enjoy festive and unique experiences—all while directly investing in the local economy.
Shopping that benefits Redlands
Since April 2021, Redlands residents and businesses have been subject to an 8.75% sales tax, a rate that includes a one-cent tax approved by voters under Measure T in November 2020.
This measure was designed to generate $18–$20 million annually to fund essential public safety, city services, and infrastructure projects.
By shopping locally, residents not only contribute to the success of neighborhood businesses but also help sustain the vital city services funded by Measure T. This includes improved police and fire department operations, enhanced public spaces, and support for programs addressing homelessness and public welfare.
What Shopping Local Supports
Revenue from Measure T has already been used to:
- Hire and support 39 positions in the Redlands Police and Fire Departments.
- Upgrade community amenities, such as parks, the senior center, and the Emergency Operations Center.
- Repair sidewalks, curbs, and alleys across the city.
- Fund homelessness response, including a $510,000 grant for a facility and a $2.7 million reserve for homelessness and police needs.
- Maintain and improve public buildings and infrastructure, including ADA street ramps and animal shelter upgrades.
Every dollar spent at Redlands businesses helps sustain these services.
Local businesses support the city’s financial health and provide customers with unique benefits, including distinctive gifts, engaging activities, and exceptional dining experiences.
That's why this year, CFR is teaming up with local businesses to encourage residents to shop and celebrate locally.
During our Shop Local Holiday Giveaway, our newsletter subscribers have the chance to win prizes and discounts from local favorites.
Each of these businesses has contributed tickets, a gift card, a gift basket or discounted service, including:
- Melt'm Jewelry - $100 gift card
- JRNO Wellness and Skincare - $100 gift card
- Fern Cottage Florals - Wrapped bouquet
- Redlands Improv School - One Sunday drop-in class, two tickets to a Saturday Night Improv Show, and one 6-week Beginner Improv Course
- Viva La Boba - Free drink
- Right at Home - Community gift basket
- Epicure - Spice and seasoning gift basket
We will be drawing winners throughout December. To enter, subscribe to our free Weekly News Update for a chance to win.
Shopping locally this holiday season is more than finding the perfect gift—it’s about supporting local business owners, sustaining vital public safety and infrastructure services and preserving the unique character of our community.
This article was made possible through the support of the businesses listed.
