Downtown Wausau is becoming a hub for socially responsible holiday purchases. Besides being comprised of local small businesses, which return more investment and economic impact to their communities than big box stores or internet sales, several downtown businesses feature fair trade, organic, and American-made items. Shepherd and Schaller, Kidz Closet, and Studio 7 are just some of these retailers.

As a growing number of holiday shoppers want their gifts to be unique, have meaning, and/or far reaching impact, these and other local retailers see Fair Trade, Organic, Sustainability, Ecological Responsibility and Made in the USA as important factors in a consumer’s decision to make a purchase.  

“Giving fair trade, sustainably produced, ethically or transparently made gifts are a natural way to pass on a passion for ethics through a product that has a story. Whether it’s Made in the USA, with a consideration toward sustainability or a transparent supply chain, these gifts are not only a great opportunity to support businesses that are making a difference, but to share this value with our friends and loved ones,” said Theresa Shepherd, Co-Owner of Shepherd & Schaller Sporting Goods.

According to Heather Zentrich, Owner of Studio 7 and Kidz Closet, gift-givers and lovers of all things sustainable, ethical, and fair, are on the lookout for companies and brands that “make a difference.”

“This may range from paying farmers and workers a fair price for their product to environmentally sustainable business practices. The holiday season is the perfect time of year to share the love of products that do good with family and friends in the form of gifts,” Zentrich says.

Shepherd & Schaller, Studio 7 and Kidz Closet have an assortment of merchandise that meets these criteria and satisfies shopper’s goals.