NLR CVB launches holiday gift card program to assist local restaurants

The North Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau launched its “Up to Something Local” limited-time restaurant gift card program on Sunday (Dec. 7). The program allows the North Little Rock Welcome Center at 600 Main Street to sell local restaurant gift cards in-store and online through the holidays.

North Little Rock Welcome Center customers can purchase $20 gift cards from 28 different North Little Rock restaurants through the program.

The “Up to Something Local” restaurant gift card program will continue through at least the end of 2020 and is part of the North Little Rock CVB’s efforts to promote North Little Rock restaurants amidst the coronavirus pandemic.

Arkansas restaurants are currently required to follow strict sanitation and social-distancing protocols, which include reducing total seating capacity to 66%.

“Gift cards are an easy way to give a ‘local’ experience, whether it’s an old favorite or a new restaurant your friends and family want to try,” said Stephanie Slagle, North Little Rock CVB Marketing Director. “Especially now, when everyone has different comfort levels around dining, gift cards can easily be used for dining in or ordering to-go, used immediately or saved for later.”

Many restaurants have experienced slower sales and the typically busy holiday party season is expected to see lower volume due to the pandemic and cancellation of larger gatherings.

“The main purpose of the initiative is to help North Little Rock restaurants,” Slagle said. “All revenue from the gift cards goes right back to the local store. Customers can easily shop gift cards for multiple people on their lists, and the restaurants have more opportunities to get in front of new or repeat customers.”

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