Shopper club program hopes to boost economy in East Palestine

EAST PALESTINE, Ohio (WKBN) – In the year-and-a-half since the East Palestine train derailment , the town does look a lot like it did before February 3, 2023.

"We're basically back to normal. Actually, in some areas, we're better than we were," said Tom Brittain, with Brittain Motors.

Business operators admit there is still a stigma that's been hard to overcome.

"You do still get stories and stuff of people saying, 'Oh, I'll never go back there,'" said Kat Smith, of Kat's Krystals.

Three weeks ago, a group of downtown businesses started passing out cards for the "EP VIP Shopper Club," offering customers special deals and incentives to attract more customers.

"I think anytime that you get kind of that widespread advertising, that you do tend to get a pick-up and I think that's what the main goal is," Smith said.

The idea is being supported by members of the local Community Improvement Corporation and so far, nearly two dozen businesses have signed on to participate.

Organizers claim the club already has more than 500 members.

"I believe that it could generate some more activity and, of course, that's what we're after. More activity downtown, more traffic, more shoppers," Brittain said.

While Brittain is offering a discount on parts and labor for cardholders coming to his dealership, others have their own incentives — some running through the end of the year, just in time for holiday shopping.

"Really hope that we see a surge in the gift-giving season and stuff," Smith said.

It's something that could help a number of these businesses continue their recovery.

To become a member of the EP VIP Shopper Club and see all of the deals being offered at East Palestine businesses, visit the village's website .