Near North Businesses Join 'Chicago Loves Local' Campaign to Boost Holiday Shopping

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · November 14, 2025

Near North Side businesses are taking center stage in the newly launched 'Chicago Loves Local: 77 Reasons To Shop Small' campaign, a citywide initiative encouraging Chicagoans to support local merchants this holiday season. The campaign, which kicked off this week, aims to showcase unique businesses across all 77 community areas, with several Near North establishments featured prominently in the initial promotions.

The initiative, spearheaded by two Far North Side business groups in collaboration with a city task force, offers special incentives for shoppers including punch card promotions and limited-edition merchandise. Near North residents can participate by shopping at local stores, sharing their experiences on social media, and leaving positive reviews for neighborhood businesses. The campaign comes at a perfect time as the area continues to evolve under the Central Area Plan 2045, which focuses on making Near North a more vibrant urban space with expanded retail options.

"This campaign gives us a chance to highlight what makes Near North special," said a participating Michigan Avenue business owner. "We're encouraging residents to discover hidden gems in their own neighborhood before the holiday rush." The Chicago Loves Local campaign runs through Small Business Saturday on November 29, with featured businesses and special events being announced weekly on the campaign's Instagram page.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/11/11/chicago-loves-local-campaign-encourages-neighbors-to-shop-local-this-holiday-season/
2. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/new-plan-20-years-development-downtown-chicago/