The initiative launched in 45 stores in 2016, and just made its way to Dayton this month. The stores currently feature a wide range of products from local businesses based out of Cincinnati, Westerville, Cleveland and Powell.
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“As the area’s hometown department store, we take great pride in showcasing products made right here by businesses in our local communities and state,” said Cindy Drake, store manager at the Elder-Beerman Dayton Mall location. “Elder-Beerman’s regional merchandising team has carefully curated a selection of specialty products from Ohio artisans that provide our customers with a hometown shopping experience.”
The local products include pillows, acrylic jewelry, home decor, candles, printed art and apparel. Bon-Ton Stores Inc., the owner of Elder-Beerman, is still looking for new product submissions through March 24. Interested applicants can apply online.
The products sold will also rotate, and new items will be added frequently. Bon-Ton aims to open at least 150 “Close to Home” shops by mid-2017.
Bon-Ton operates 263 stores in 25 states.
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