Nearly 30 businesses are participating – the collection campaign runs from September 11th to October 10th
The district town of Groß-Gerau, together with the Groß-Gerau Business Association (founded in 1865), is participating in the "Shop Local". From September 11th to October 10th, 2026, the town and the association aim to highlight local retailers and restaurants. Nearly 30 businesses have already confirmed their participation. The campaign will be accompanied by a collector's card offering prizes such as "GG vouchers" and other rewards.
"Shop Local" is an initiative of the Chambers of Industry and Commerce. In Groß-Gerau, it is being implemented by the town and the local business association in conjunction with the Darmstadt Rhine-Main-Neckar Chamber of Industry and Commerce. Other shops and restaurants can still participate.
Nearly 30 companies are participating
According to economic development officer Thorsten Eisenhofer, more than half of the centrally located shops and restaurants are participating in the campaign so far.
Mayor Jörg Rüddenklau, at the launch of the initiative, encouraged residents to support local businesses. He emphasized that local shops are not only important for providing essential goods and services, but also as employers, supporters of local clubs and associations, and as community hubs.
To strengthen local businesses, Groß-Gerau has offered the city and shopping voucher "GG-Scheck" for 15 years, which is now also available digitally. According to the city, the weekly market, which takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays, is another attraction that draws visitors to the city center.
Collect stickers and receive a GG check
During the promotional period, participating businesses will be selling collection cards entitled "Your Super Points for Groß-Gerau" . Stickers for the card will be given out with every purchase or visit to a restaurant.
The stickers are linked to various terms that participants can use to indicate what they value about shopping locally. Michael Schleidt, managing director of the local business association, points out that this will not result in a representative survey, but the feedback could provide a snapshot of public opinion.
Anyone who six stickers can hand in their card at the reception desk of the town hall, Am Marktplatz 1, and receive a GG voucher worth five euros. A total of 200 of these vouchers are available; they will be issued while supplies last.
Prize draw with prizes worth 500 euros
In addition, the submitted collectible cards will be entered into a prize draw at the end of October. Prizes with a total value of 500 euros awarded. The deadline for submitting the cards is October 16, 2026.
Jörg Leinekugel, chairman of the local business association, emphasized the personal advice and short distances offered by local retailers when presenting the initiative. At the same time, he acknowledged that consumer sentiment is currently subdued due to various crises.
(GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSGG)
