Everybody likes a discount and now you can save money while you save the planet. A new card could help you take the squeeze out of buying green.
Who doesn't need a little pampering now and then? Allyu Spa is just one of more than 60 local businesses offering discounts with the new Squeeze Card. Here, you can get a free manicure when you order a pedicure or $20 off a $100 purchase. All of the participating retailers are dedicated to green practices.
"We're daily conscious as far as our impact on the planet," said Tamara Wills, owner, Allyu Spa. "In each arena we make sure that nothing is toxic. Our nail room has no DVP, no tooling, no formaldehyde."
The discount card comes from afreshsqueeze.com, a website that's working to become a hub for all things green in Chicago. Ten dollars buys a year's worth of privileges. In today's tough economy, organizers hope discounts will help cut the cost for shoppers concerned about the environment.
"It's just really tough to always get the greener, the healthier, the more organic option because of the financial times we're in," said Dan Cox, publisher, A Fresh Squeeze.
There are savings on all kinds of products, such as free delivery from Irv and Shelley's Fresh Picks where they bring organically-grown and locally-sourced produce right to your doorstep. If you're looking to do a little re-decorating, you might find what you need at Green Home Chicago, a design center on the Near West Side. Buy three gallons of "soy-based" paint and get one free.
Flash your card at Grasshopper 510 and get 15% off a home goods purchase of $100 or more.
"They're wanting to basically get more foot traffic and more volume so ultimately they can bring their prices down, that it is as competitive as the 'non-green' options," said Cox.
The Squeeze Card is not plastic. It's made from corn.
To find out how to get your hands on a card and to see a complete list of stores where you can get discounts, visit afreshsqueeze.com.
