Shopping Local Gives Us The Opportunity To Strengthen Our Community

Marketplace was founded by a young mother and wife - and smart marketing entrepreneur - who moved to O'Fallon in 1995 not knowing too much about the community. After conducting some research of her own, she found a niche in the area for a publication featuring local retailers in Madison and St. Clair counties. Today, the magazine reaches 50,000 homeowners in Madison, St. Clair and Monroe counties, and is available in 12 grocery stores and several Hallmarks in the area.

While the magazine transitioned to a new publisher in 2009, the original mission is still the heart and soul of the content: To offer a local resource that encourages shopping in the Metro East not only for convenience, but to help strengthen the economy thus giving back to the community at the same time. Local businesses help grow the economic base of the community and the dollars you spend have a domino effect into the schools, churches, parks, non-profits and more. 

Indeed, it is important to me personally to help promote the non-profits in the area that need our support. I hope you find those features inspiring and if there is an organization you would like to see featured, please let me know. In addition, the updated calendar is open to all applicable events, concerts or activities throughout the area - just email them to me. 

Please peruse the magazine and take note of the many local retailers, businesses, agencies and health-care facilities who work hard to offer the best products and services available - most of you likely know these business owners as your neighbors and friends. There are some great discounts and coupons available throughout the magazine as well.

Lisa R. Adams
Publisher, Marketplace Magazine