City continues business support through ShopMenlo campaign

Published on November 10, 2026

Shop local tag with shopping bags

The City of Menlo Park is partnering with Open Rewards to launch the program, advancing the City’s Downtown Vibrancy initiative. Open Rewards is an app-based platform that allows users to make purchases through the app at designated businesses and earn rewards toward other purchases. It’s easy to participate as no sign-up is required by businesses. Businesses just need to accept payment as they would with any other debit card transaction.

“Shop local” campaigns are proven to provide support to the local small business community by encouraging residents to dine out, make everyday purchases, or buy gifts from a local business. The Open Rewards platform found that 87% of users indicated that the shop local program positively influenced their decision to buy from local, small business owners. Local businesses also report a positive impact, with 75% of businesses reporting a positive effect, including new customers and increased customer loyalty. The American Express 2025 Small Business Economic Impact Study found that $.68 of every dollar spent at a small business remains in the community.

Currently, ShopMenlo will be launched with downtown Menlo Park businesses only. Shoppers will earn 5% in rewards for purchases made at downtown businesses, which can be redeemed at other downtown small businesses.

It’s easy to participate in ShopMenlo:

Small businesses

  • If you’re a downtown small business, you’re automatically registered!
  • Accept phone wallet or debit card payments as you normally do.

Shoppers

  • Download the Open Rewards app.
  • Link your debit card in the app.
  • Make payments as you normally would through your phone wallet.
  • Rewards will start to accumulate toward your next purchase.

Visit menlopark.gov/downtown for updates on the official launch. We look forward to supporting our small business community and keeping funds local.

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