On Wednesday, the Soldotna Chamber of Commerce Luncheon will discuss how Soldotna cash mobs came to fruition and why the patrons find it to be beneficial to the community. On Tuesday, a cash mob will be taking place on Tuesday at around 5 p.m. at Kenai Kombucha, followed by a visit to a store that has yet to be named.
The concept of a cash mob is simple: a group meets up for coffee and then collectively visits a surprise retailer to spend money, on products or services. The goal of each mob event to select retail partners with whom a an influx of customers would subsequently also support local business.
Wednesday’s luncheon speaker, head of the Soldotna cash mobs, Rhonda McCormick: “The mission of the mob is to infuse cash into two locally small-owned businesses, and the first is the eatery. So you come and eat, or drink and visit with your friends, and then when we announce the secret shopping place, the intention is that you will spend a minimum of $20 at the shopping place.”
Rhonda says you are never limited to spending only $20: “Oh, I’ve spent much more than $20 at our shopping places. You are welcome to spend as much as you want, and of course, the merchants very much appreciate that. Anyone can come. We have had some women that love to shop, but we also have had quite a few men who have joined us, and some people have brought their kids along. So, it’s a good time for everybody.”
To learn more, the luncheon will start at noon, February 12, at the Soldotna Regional Sports Complex, and is open to the public. An RSVP is required for those planning to eat at the event. To RSVP, call 262-9814. No RSVP is required to attend Tuesday’s 5 p.m. cash mob event at Kenai Kombucha.