Some local merchants reported success with the “Spend $20 on the 20th” campaign Saturday.

“I’ve had more people than a normal Saturday,” said Angelia Armstrong, the owner of Red Thread Studio in downtown Suffolk. “Customers really liked the idea.”

Armstrong reported that her customers — many of whom spent more than $20 — said they would like to see the promotion done on a regular basis.

“It’s a good way to explain the benefits of shopping locally,” Armstrong said. “You don’t have to drive so far; you support those (businesses) that you know the people that own the business.”

Keith Baird, who works at The Grater Kitchen in North Suffolk, said he had plenty of customers Saturday.

Some businesses reported slow traffic early Saturday but hoped business would pick up as the sweltering day cooled off.

The promotion, sponsored by the Suffolk News-Herald, encouraged people to spend $20 on June 20 to pump money into the local economy. Those who did so at participating merchants had the chance to enter a drawing for $100.