Retailers Turn Donations into Discounts in Downtown Royal Oak

During the most wonderful time of the year, retailers in Royal Oak are joining together to give give back to the community through a canned food drive that will benefit Forgotten Harvest.

Beginning Dec. 13 and ending Christmas Eve, the Royal Oak Association of Retailers (ROAR) will offer 12 days of sales incentives to local shoppers that include tax-free purchase days, a variety of sales and an opportunity to get big discounts when you donate canned goods.

Canned Food Drive on Saturday

"For each can good you donate on Dec. 15, you receive 5 percent off of one item—up to 15 percent," said Monica Wilson of the Blu Jeans Bar on Washington. "But it doesn't stop there, if you bring in nine cans, I will give you 15 percent off of three items."

Wilson hopes the discount incentive will encourage shoppers to bring in lots of canned food to help feed households in Michigan living at risk of hunger.

"I don't want to give Forgotten Harvest a basket with a couple of things in it," said Wilson, who prefers to think big. "You can buy a can of something for 59 cents—bring in three cans and you'll get 15 percent off a jacket or jeans. You save money and benefit someone else, too."

The Blu Jeans Bar specializes in jeans but they also have a selection of tops, sweaters, shoes, boots and handbags.

"We offer fashion items that will make you stand out without breaking your bank," Wilson said.

Other retailers participating in the food drive include Five15 Media, Wooden Hangers, Incognito, That Girl Resale and others. Offers vary.

Find out more about the 12 Days of Christmas

For a complete listing of participating stores and sales incentives during the 12 Days of Christmas event visit the Royal Oak Association of Retailers on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ROARFAN or on the web at www.roarevents.info.