Visionary Investment Partner Program Details ...

Okay, so I had the idea. And after much wrestling with it, we finalized exactly what the benefits to VIPS would be ... I was more than a bit intimidated, however, by the prospect of systematizing it and describing it accurately enough that someone could actually participate. Now, after several days of research, writing, and revision, I have produced an official VIP Membership Program Agreement, and a brochure. Yay me! [And thanks to a certain national retailer whose website includes the full text of their paid membership "loyalty" program agreement.]

As difficult as it is when I do force myself to write about Greater Goods, I am usually pleased with the result. And, I end up re-inspired. I've found that writing about the business [whether for the blog, website, an ad, press release or brochure] forwards an important and on-going process of clarifying my mission and goals. And from everything I read about innovative and [eventually] successful businesses, they consistently review and evaluate how they definte themselves, their purpose, and their vision. I find this process useful to remind myself why I am doing this [I'm certainly not taking a salary], and to make sure that the reality of Greater Goods does not diverge from the vision.

From the [recently written] VIP Program brochure:

What is Greater Goods' mission, anyway?
Greater Goods is a “green” general store and “fair trade” art & craft gallery. We strive to be a globally-minded retail business that is deeply rooted in our local community. Our mission is to provide our customers with high quality merchandise that is ethically sourced and good for people and the planet. We hope that by doing so we contribute to a vibrant local community and a sustainable world for us all.

"VIP" Program Officially Open!

It's an idea we've been flirting with all year, tweaking and re-thinking. Now, the need to raise some immediate working capital finally convinced us to move foreward with our "VIP" program. We played with a lot of possible names for the program [Greater Goods' Groupies? Very Important Patrons?] and we settled on "Visionary Investment Partners." No, we are not selling stock in Greater Goods, and we 're not a member-owned coop. But, for a $100 "investment" in the continued growth of Greater Goods, VIPs will receive:

• 5% off EVERY regularly priced purchase for 12 months. [That's like paying no sales tax for a full year!]
• ability to pre-order regularly stocked merchandise at discount prices. [Never run out of your favorite soap, kitchen cleaner, or coffee! And get it at a discount!]
• invitations to preview-purchase sales to custom order what we normally don't keep in stock. [Perfect for those special gifts, or locating hard-to-find essentials.]
• invitations to a special VIP appreciation event this fall.

Our goal is to inspire at least 5o folks to join the VIP program by August 30th. We hope you'll consider it!