Nov 29, 2010

Plainfield stores get boostBy Tony GrafPlainfieldSun.SunTimes.com

Plainfield, IL – The weekend after Thanksgiving brought a festive atmosphere downtown and an important boost in customer traffic.

Plainfield celebrated Candlelight Christmas on Saturday, a daylong event culminating with the traditional creche lighting in the evening at Plymouth Congregational Church.

The increased attention to downtown — plus American Express’ “Small Business Saturday” promotion — were likely factors in the weekend jump in foot traffic.

Small Business Saturday’s importance is in “trying to get people to support local businesses as opposed to just shopping at big-box stores and at the malls,” said Chere Bates, co-owner of the Lockport Street Gallery in downtown Plainfield.

Friday also was a busy day at the art gallery and gift shop, at 24028 W. Lockport St., where all items are hand-made.

“We were busier yesterday, for the day after Thanksgiving, than we’ve ever been, for foot traffic,” Bates said.

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