ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — In honor of Independent Retailer Month, Explore Asheville is encouraging locals and visitors to support small businesses with the 2025 Asheville Indie Retail Challenge, running through the end of July.

Participants who check in at five or more independent retailers using the Explore Asheville app will be entered into a prize drawing for an Asheville Goodie Bag — a curated basket of locally made products valued at $500. Each additional check-in increases the chance of winning.

To join, users can download the Explore Asheville app from the App Store or Google Play and look for the “Indie Retail Challenge” icon. A map of 239 participating retailers throughout Asheville and Buncombe County is available through the app. Shoppers check in at stores by tapping the “Check In Now” button on each location’s listing.

The prize package includes two passes to Biltmore, an East Fork mug, a Spicewalla 10-pack of local seasonings, sourwood honey from The Asheville Bee Charmer, Asheville Mix popcorn from Poppy Popcorn, Asheville Grey Tea from Asheville Tea Company, a Moonlight Makers tea towel and an art print from Horse + Hero.

One winner will be selected at random in early August. Organizers say the challenge is a fun way to discover new shops while supporting Asheville’s independent business community.

More information and a step-by-step tutorial are available at ExploreAsheville.com.

 

Read more. . .