Action day on September 12 – letter hunt leads through local businesses starting in October
Bickenbach is participating in the Chamber of Industry and Commerce's "Shop Local" campaign this year with its own program . On the campaign day, Saturday, September 12, 2026 , local retailers can promote their businesses with special offers and promotions. In October, the Bickenbach Business Association will also launch a rally that runs until just before the Christmas market.
around 50 retail, craft, and catering businesses in Bickenbach. The campaign aims to highlight the importance of these businesses to the town.
Approximately 50 businesses in Bickenbach
The local offerings range from toys and stationery, bakery, pharmacy, optician and flower shop to groceries, wine shop and pottery, as well as craft businesses and various gastronomic offerings.
“Our shops and restaurants are far more than just places to shop and eat; they are meeting places, training establishments, and reliable supporters of our community life,” says Mayor Markus Hennemann. Those who shop locally also contribute to the economic infrastructure of the municipality.
Dr. Alexander Bode, the volunteer economic development officer, also points to jobs and training positions, support for local associations, and trade tax revenues as factors that make local companies important to the community.
Rally starts in October
The centerpiece of the Bickenbach program is a "Shop Local Rally" organized by the Bickenbach Business Association (GVB). It begins in October and runs until just before the Christmas market.
Participating member businesses each receive a letter, which is prominently displayed in their store or at their company location. A checklist lists the rally stops. Those who visit the businesses and record the corresponding letters can then use them to form a solution word.
The questionnaires are available at Spreng toy store and will also be offered for download on the business association's website. Completed questionnaires can then be submitted there.
Award ceremony at the Christmas market
The winners will be honored at the Bickenbach Christmas market. Prizes will consist of "shop local" bags filled with products from participating GVB members.
“The rally gives our members the opportunity to talk to customers over several weeks,” explains GVB Chairman Ralf Dingeldey. At the same time, participants should become aware of businesses they may not have known before.
Businesses that are not yet members of the local business association but are interested in the campaign can also contact the GVB. Information about the rally will be available from the business association and participating businesses starting in October.
“Shop local” is a campaign by the Chambers of Industry and Commerce, which aims to draw attention to the importance of local retailers, service providers and restaurants.
(BICKENBACH – RED/PSB)
